A GLIMPSE AT THE NOMADING JOURNEY

Why No One Likes a Hard Nomad: Hard Nomading vs Being "The Nomad"

KATH MILLER Contributor

September 13, 2023

Being a hard nomad before, I always felt like I was a damsel in distress.

Every corner of the world holds a promise for the digital nomad, but not all nomads tread the same path. How you navigate this lifestyle can profoundly impact your well-being, finances, and overall experience. Two distinct paths emerge: the “Hard Nomad” and “The Nomad.” Knowing the difference isn’t just a matter of terminology; it’s about aligning your work ethos with your life’s aspirations. Dive in with me as we explore these two contrasting worlds, helping you make informed choices in your nomadic journey.

Hard Nomading: Racing against time

We’ve all been there. Clocking in hours, hopping from one café to another, always chasing deadlines. Hard nomading is the reality many of us face when we first dive into the digital nomad lifestyle. It’s about trading time for money, often at the expense of truly experiencing the places we visit.

I recall a time in Kyoto during cherry blossom season. Amidst the beauty, I found myself cooped up in my room, missing out on the vibrant culture and scenic landscapes. There I also got the chance to meet a fellow traveler. After our interesting conversation, I realized how while she was out embracing the culture, I was just confined to my hostel, meeting work deadlines.

Here goes how liberating it is to appreciate the essence of being “The Nomad”

Being “the nomad” is a mindset shift. It’s about understanding that our worth isn’t tied to the hours we work but the value we create. This approach allows for deeper connections with clients, more meaningful work, and a genuine bond with the communities we encounter.

It is also not just about work; it’s about having meaningful experiences. Instead of counting hours, I am now focusing on delivering impactful contributions to my clients. More so, I always strive to immerse myself in local communities, understand their needs, and often lend my skills to make a difference.

In Bali, I met a Nomad who, apart from her regular work, collaborated with local artisans to create a digital platform for their crafts. She wasn’t just working; she was adding value to a community.

Might as well let you guys know that…

From a lot of people like me whom I got the chance to chat with, we all realized the same thing as we went along with being an on-the-go creator. Hard nomading often leads to burnout. The constant hustle, while initially rewarding, can be draining. On the other hand, “the nomad” seeks projects that resonate with their values, ensuring that every piece of work is impactful and fulfilling.

Also, while hard nomading might offer fleeting interactions, being “the nomad” is about immersing oneself in the local culture, understanding their way of life, and building lasting relationships.

Think of it as the difference between a tourist and a traveler. One rushes through attractions, ticking off a checklist, while the other takes time, understanding and absorbing the essence of a place.

I always arrive pretty early after my morning routine.

Join the journey as we explore more of the road ahead

Both paths have their merits and challenges. The Hard Nomad might achieve financial goals quicker, but at what cost? The Nomad might take longer but will gather a wealth of experiences and connections. In the journey of life, is it the destination or the journey that counts? Perhaps, it’s a bit of both.

If you’re keen to delve deeper into the world of value-driven nomading, why not learn from someone who’s walked the path? Join me in my upcoming webinar, where I’ll share more insights, experiences, and guide you towards a fulfilling digital nomad journey.