The power of patience

If there’s one thing this nomadic lifestyle has taught me, it’s that consistency and patience are often the unsung heroes behind every success story.

In a world where we’re constantly moving, chasing new experiences, and balancing work from one time zone to another, staying consistent can feel like swimming against the current. But it’s those small, steady steps that keep us afloat and ultimately move us forward.

When I first started this journey, I wanted everything to fall into place quickly. I thought, "If I’m doing the right thing, results should come fast." But as many of us have learned, especially when living a location-independent life, patience isn’t just a virtue, it’s a survival skill.

I remember when we launched Freaking Nomads, and we had only a handful of people following along. It took time, effort, and countless moments of doubt before we started seeing real growth. And guess what? That growth didn’t come from grand gestures or sweeping changes—it came from showing up every day, even when it felt like no one was watching.

Consistency isn’t glamorous, but it’s effective. Whether it’s sending out that newsletter every week, pitching for that remote gig you’re not sure you’ll get, or just sticking to a routine when you’re in a completely unfamiliar place—it’s those small actions that build momentum over time.

The challenge is, we often feel like nothing is happening in the moment. It’s frustrating, I know. We’re wired to expect immediate results, but that’s rarely how it works, especially as nomads. Our growth tends to be more gradual, like seeds planted in different corners of the world, slowly sprouting at their own pace.

One of my personal mantras is:

Be patient with the process, and trust that your efforts are compounding even when you can’t see it.

It’s helped me through those days when I felt like quitting or when progress seemed invisible. Maybe some of you are in that space right now—working from a random café, wondering if all this effort is even worth it. Trust me, it is.

Remember, being a digital nomad isn’t just about the freedom to move. It’s about learning to pace yourself, embracing uncertainty, and mastering the art of patience. And when you pair that patience with consistent action, the results might not be instant, but they’ll be lasting.

So my advice is: take a deep breath. Stay consistent, even when it feels pointless. And be patient with yourself and the journey you’re on.

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Written by Irene Wang

Digital nomad and co-founder of Freaking Nomads. She shares raw, unfiltered stories and helps nomads find resources to thrive while traveling and working remotely.

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