Remote working has grown exponentially in popularity in recent years, you see more and more people working remotely. This new work style offers many advantages, especially if you decide to work remotely from abroad, you can enjoy even more unique benefits. Here are 8 key reasons why remote working abroad is an excellent choice.
1. Sniff culture and gain inspiration
Working from another country or area in your own country offers the chance to immerse yourself in a new culture. This can not only enrich you personally, but also give you new perspectives and ideas for your work. Whether you work in a bustling city or a quiet coastal town, the local culture can stimulate your creativity and give your work a unique flair.
2. Zooming out for a moment and letting creativity flow
New cultures not only give you inspiration, it makes you more creative. You literally open up your mind. You will also find that when you just go on vacation, you also learn from other cultures and other people around you. This gives you insights. It’s the same with a workation. In addition, it is an ideal time to zoom out from your daily activities and see things in a new perspective. For example, you can very deliberately choose to use your workation for brainstorming. Whether you go alone or with a team. Put your other work away for a while and choose a specific project on which to put all your focus.
Once, for example, I booked a cottage in France for a midweek to work on my business. I wasn’t doing daily chores but my goal was to get my strategy in place for the next few months. From brainstorming to developing my strategic plan. In between I sat outside for a while and after my workday I walked into the forest. That different environment does you so well then.
3. Cost savings
Depending on the destination, the cost of living can be significantly lower than in your home country. If you arrange your housing in a smart way, such as the examples in this blog, it is very financially rewarding to work remotely. This means you may have to spend less on daily necessities such as food, outings and transportation. Consider Spain, for example, or various Balkan countries. This can increase your financial flexibility and allow you to invest more in personal or professional growth.
4. Better Work-Life Balance
For me personally, this is one of the main reasons for occasionally working remotely. I have a great passion for travel and want nothing more than to travel around the world. But there is also money to be made. Working remotely allows me to combine this and one does not come at the expense of the other. Because I work I have an income, and because I am in a different place I also spend a lot of time doing fun things and being relaxed.
I unwind much easier in a different environment. The work/life balance is much healthier for me when I work remotely.
In the busy life we all have, it is sometimes difficult to find the right balance and distribute your energy properly. Remote working abroad promotes a healthier work-life balance. With the freedom to set your own schedule, you can make time for activities you enjoy, such as exercising, exploring new places or simply relaxing on the beach. This will improve your overall well-being and reduce stress.
5. Increased productivity and focus
Many remote workers report experiencing increased productivity and focus when they work outside their usual environment. It’s a change from the boring office garden or home office. New environments can be inspiring and stimulating, which can lead to a fresh perspective on work projects. Without the distractions of a traditional office or your family at home, you can work more efficiently. You can create your own ideal workspace at your destination. Wondering how to find a great place to work? Read all about it in this blog.
6. Professional growth and networking
Working abroad also provides unique opportunities for professional growth. You can explore new markets and work cultures, which can deepen your understanding of your field. Moreover, you can network with professionals from different countries, which can lead to valuable international connections and collaborations. There are endless digital nomad community and coworking spaces where you can meet like-minded people. Personally, I always find it super fun to get to know other people who also work from a different place. By the way, this not only applies to your professional growth, but you also grow tremendously on a personal level. Not only is this experience a boost for your self-confidence, while traveling you always make new friendships faster. Especially as a solo traveler. I also met people from all over the world this way and made very valuable friendships. In fact, my 2 best friends now I know both from abroad and got to know during a workation.
7. Improve language skills
When you travel to a country where another language is spoken, that’s the time to improve your language skills. No duolingo can beat that! (By the way, it’s helpful to start this before your trip). This can not only be personally enriching, but also raise your professional profile, especially if you work in an international industry.
8. Flexibility and freedom
One of the biggest advantages of remote working is the flexibility it provides. I really should have put this as No. 1 in this list. You can adapt your workplace to your needs, whether that means spending a few months on the coast or escaping the Dutch winter to a warm climate. This freedom is worth so much and contributes immensely to your (work) happiness.
In short, also start working remotely abroad
Remote working abroad offers a range of benefits beyond the usual benefits of working from home. From increased productivity and creativity to cost savings and improved work-life balance, the benefits abound. By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can not only enhance your professional life, but also expand your personal horizons and gain a unique life experience. So, if you have the opportunity to work remotely and you are adventurous, definitely consider doing your work from abroad. It could be one of the best decisions you ever make. Would you like to work remotely, but have no idea how to go about it? What to look out for? What skills you need to do this? What are fun destinations to go to? In the Remote Ready online course, I’ll take you step by step and then you’ll be all set for your remote work adventure!
