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We have all had those days when we just want to quit our jobs and run away. Maybe it’s the pressure of school or your family. Maybe you’re tired of seeing your ex in your neighborhood. Maybe you just feel like you’ve been in one place for too long and you’re ready for another adventure. At this point, you constantly want to experience a change in lifestyle and scenery. You want to live the nomad life.
There are many people similar to yourself who rarely feel content in one place for very long. Always on the move, they have never found a place to call “home” – but they like it that way. The road can get tough and lonely. But if you’re serious about that life, pack the essentials and grab your passport – it’s time to try something new. Here are five questions you should ask before choosing the nomad life.
Obviously, you’re going to have to leave your bed and half your wardrobe behind. No more Internet, no more distilled water, ice cubes or fresh sheets. You have to be willing to give it all up.
Check out The Minimalists, a hipster power duo who promote letting go of excessive material items in our consumer culture. Although the site promotes minimalism, the vast amount of content may be slightly overwhelming. Read their introduction page, watch their documentary or play the 30-day Minimalism Game for a fun start that avoids a panic attack.
Moving around all the time means you have to value your lifestyle more than your relationships and your career. If you don’t want to give those up, you won’t be a nomad for too long.
The first step is to let go of the guilt of being self-centered. Check out Bustle‘s seven reasons why putting yourself first is not selfish. While some significant others or employers may not understand, you will eventually find the right people that fit your new lifestyle on your trek into nomad land.
When you’re always on the move, you may never be in a place long enough for it to start feeling like home. You’ll always be living in a hostel, a stranger’s home or the only B&B in town. It may be tempting to take all of your familiar belongings with you on your trek into the unknown, but overpacking will only weigh you down.
Refinery29‘s tips for minimalist packing on trips can also be applied to your ongoing nomad lifestyle. Although you should bring the essentials, be sure to grab one item that can make any room feel like home. Throw in a childhood stuffed animal or family heirloom to remind yourself of your roots and avoid feeling homesick.
As a nomad, you’re going to be essentially homeless and probably broke, so you’ll have to go through some pretty uncomfortable experiences. If you let go of your pride, you’ll likely have an easier time finding food and shelter on your journey.
Slate reports that practicing humility may actually encourage learning, according to a study done by University of California, Davis postdoctoral scholar. When you’re humble, it may become a little easier to deal with the trials and tribulations of nomad life. Sure, confidence can be helpful, but modesty will make you more of a likable realist.
The best part about the nomadic experience is meeting diverse, interesting men and women. You can make friends for life if you are open to learning about new people and new cultures. These connections open the door to so many new experiences.
Forbes offers seven pillars for connecting with anyone, including being helpful, attentive and persistent. Above all else, be genuine. Forming honest relationships with people will expand your mind and propel you through life. Not only will making these connections expand your social network, they will also allow you to grow as a person.
Do you still feel prepared to take on the nomad life after asking yourself these questions? Although the lifestyle comes with its challenges, the change of pace could provide a powerful, positive impact. Aside from meaningful relationships and personality growth, you’ll explore diverse cities and cultures around the world. Plus these new landscapes will make perfect Instagram shots to share with your family and friends back home – once you get Wi-Fi connection!
