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Can we have a career while traveling?

As I write this under the Oaxacan sun, I'm reminded of the alluring promise of the digital nomad lifestyle: adventure, freedom, fulfillment. Yet as many of us have experienced, the reality can look much different at times.

The pressure to "have it all" can be immense. We're told we must build personal brands, grow businesses, find better careers - all while traveling the world and living our best lives.

Social media primes us for comparison, making it seem like everyone else effortlessly checks every box.

But the truth is, no one can do it all, or at least not all the time. I've certainly had my fair share of burnout when trying to juggle it all as an SEO coach and freelancer and also contributing to this beautiful community that is Freaking Nomads. So, I know how it feels behind in that state.

It's easy to get caught up comparing our behind-the-scenes to everyone else's digital nomad journey.

But we have to give ourselves permission to focus our energy on our own pace.

I've realized I can't pour myself fully into business growth and career while also planning an intensive travel itinerary. And that's okay. There will always be another destination, just as there will always be more work to do.

The key is checking in with yourself - your true needs and limitations - instead of measuring against unrealistic standards. Do less, but do it well. Don't stretch yourself too thin trying to do it all. The world will keep turning.

By giving ourselves permission to slow down, we create space for meaningful connection, restoration and mindfulness.

I hope that in this season, you can identify one or two key priorities to focus on. Give yourself full permission to set other great opportunities aside for now. You'll return to them refreshed, rather than drained.

🧑‍💻 Nomad Story of the Week

Nomad story of the week
@foleyexploring: “I can’t be the only one who doesn’t see themselves ever going back to a desk! ✌️ We left our jobs knowing we probably wouldn’t go back to the same life ever again. 🤫 Did we know what we would do in the future? No. Did we know we could always go back to that life? Yes. Did we know that a company would soon approach me to work for them? No. Did I get asked this question in the discussion? YES! Did I know how to answer? Heck no. I can’t tell you where we’ll be next year or next month so I can’t tell you where I want to be in a year or 5. But I do know I will work hard and be dedicated while I’m trading time for money. Isn’t that funny? Trading time ⏰ for money 💰....have you ever really thought about it? They ask that question not because they care about where you want to be or your personal goals. It’s more about is it worth training and putting energy towards your development...😕 So I encourage you to search for passion and enjoyment over money as the money will come. But it takes hustle and determination. It’s never sleazy but it’s always worth it.”

✨ Nomad Quote of the Week

"Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life." – Dolly Parton

🔥 Our Nomad Resource of the Week

Traveling Spoon

"Traveling Spoon" offers a unique culinary experience for digital nomads by connecting them with local hosts around the world for authentic home-cooked meals and cooking lessons. These immersive experiences allow remote workers to explore local cuisines and cultures intimately, enriching their nomadic lifestyle. Perfect for those who desire a deeper connection with the places they work from, Traveling Spoon offers a taste of home in a wide range of destinations.

Learn more

👉 If you want more digital nomad resources, check them all on our website 📚

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Luca Mussari
Written by Luca Mussari

Digital nomad and co-founder of Freaking Nomads. After leaving a corporate job in London, I co-created Freaking Nomads to inspire others to embrace remote work and find happiness wherever they go.

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