How to Plan Your Exit: Going From Office Desk to Digital Nomad

Leaving the comfort and salary of a steady office job for the uncertainty of life as a self-employed digital nomad is a huge change, both personally and professionally. I did it myself in 2021 when I left my job as a lawyer in London. Overall, it was an amazing decision and I’m infinitely happier than … Read more

The post How to Plan Your Exit: Going From Office Desk to Digital Nomad appeared first on Goats On The Road.

Leaving the comfort and salary of a steady office job for the uncertainty of life as a self-employed digital nomad is a huge change, both personally and professionally. I did it myself in 2021 when I left my job as a lawyer in London.

Overall, it was an amazing decision and I’m infinitely happier than I was before. But, it’s not all roses and sunshine. It can be hard at times, but ultimately, I think the challenges are worth the huge upsides.

Here are the steps that helped me go from office-bound and miserable to location-independent and free. These tips all come from my own personal experience. I hope they’re useful and help you pull off your own escape.

How to Plan Your Exit: Going From Office Desk to Digital Nomad

Whether you’re craving freedom, adventure, unlimited travel, better weather, or simply a life outside the corporate box (for me, it was all of those things), here are a few things I highly recommend you do first. This will help set yourself up for success, before taking the plunge.

Dariece Pool Madiera

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Reflect on Your Why and Goals

Goats On The Road, Dariece, in a hammock at a hostel in quilotoa loop isinlivi
Relaxing in Isinlivi before hiking the next morning

Before you write your resignation letter, take a step back and ask yourself why you want to become a digital nomad. What’s driving this decision? Whether it’s the freedom to explore new places, the chance to work on your own terms, or just wanting to escape office life, understanding your motivation is key.

For me, it was the frustration of being stuck in a rigid routine, and the stuffiness of the legal profession. I realized I wanted a lifestyle that prioritized flexibility and adventure. This “why” still gives me clarity and motivation to this day, and helps me stay focused when times get tough.

Write down your goals – both personal and professional. Do you want to see specific countries? Learn new skills? A new language? Create a sustainable income online? Build a mighty business empire? Having clear objectives will help guide your decisions and keep you motivated.

Build Financial Stability and Security

Nick & Dariece Goats On The Road enjoying some much deserved down time with drinks in an outdoor restaurant

Money stress is one of the worst parts of being a freelancer. That’s why creating a solid financial safety net is essential before you hand in your notice. You’ll need savings to cover at least a few months of living expenses, plus an emergency fund, and a plan for steady income going forward.

My business took almost a year to start making any money. Being in Central America for the first few months of my nomad life certainly helped make the money I had saved go further. But, if I hadn’t built up a pot of savings before I quit my job, I would’ve soon run out.

Before leaving your job, make a budget, cut unnecessary expenses, and try to save as much money as possible. You don’t need to have already built up a business to the point of profitability before you hit the road, but the closer you are to this stage, the less risky it will be.

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