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The Ultimate Guide to Remote Work Productivity: 8 Steps to Thriving in a Digital Nomad Lifestyle

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  • Post last modified:20 September 2024

Did you know that 77% of remote workers report higher productivity when working from home? That’s right – despite the allure of Netflix and the constant temptation of the fridge, remote work productivity is proving to be a powerhouse!

But let’s be real: staying focused when your office is your living room (or your favorite coffee shop) isn’t always a walk in the park. As someone who’s been navigating the remote work waters for years, I’ve had my fair share of productivity highs and procrastination lows.

But fear not, fellow remote warriors! I’ve compiled a list of game-changing strategies that’ll help you crush your to-do list and become a remote work superstar. Ready to transform your home office into a productivity paradise? Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Create a Dedicated Workspace: Your Productivity Command Center

Finding the perfect workspace as a digital nomad can be a bit of a challenge. It’s not just about having a spot to set up your laptop—it’s about creating an environment where you can actually get things done. I’ve tried it all: cafes, hotel lobbies, parks, even the occasional hammock. While some of these spots make for great Instagram photos, they’re not always conducive to productivity.

A comfortable, quiet workspace is best for productivity.

One of the biggest lessons I learned early on is that not all workspaces are created equal. Sure, the idea of working from a beach sounds dreamy, but have you ever tried typing with sand between your fingers? Or squinting at your screen because the sun’s glare makes it impossible to see anything? Yeah, not so dreamy.

For serious work sessions, I’ve found that coworking spaces are often the best bet. They’re designed with productivity in mind, offering reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and, perhaps most importantly, a quiet environment where you can focus. Plus, many coworking spaces have a community vibe, which is great if you’re feeling a bit isolated after days of solo travel.

But coworking spaces aren’t always available, especially in more remote destinations. That’s where getting creative with your workspace comes in. The key is to designate a specific area where your brain knows it’s time to work. Whether it’s a desk, a table, or even just a part of the room where you can sit upright and stay focused, having a dedicated workspace helps your mind switch into work mode.

Another tip: look for accommodations that cater to digital nomads. Some hotels and Airbnb’s now offer “work-friendly” listings, complete with ergonomic chairs, desks, and fast internet. It’s worth spending a bit extra for these comforts, especially if you’re planning to stay in one place for a while.

Ultimately, the goal is to find a workspace that minimizes distractions and maximizes your ability to concentrate. Once you’ve got that figured out, you’ll notice a significant boost in your productivity, leaving you more time to explore your new surroundings!

Exploring Camp’s Bay in Cape Town, South Africa

Step 2: Establish a Rock-Solid Routine: Structure is Your New Best Friend

Establishing a consistent routine is like the secret sauce for remote work productivity, especially when you’re living the digital nomad lifestyle. I learned this the hard way during my first few months on the road. It was all too easy to let the excitement of a new place take over—I’d spend mornings exploring and then try to cram all my work into the late afternoon. Spoiler alert: it didn’t work! I was stressed, my work suffered, and I wasn’t enjoying my travels as much as I’d hoped.

So, what’s the solution? Create a routine that mimics a traditional workday, even if you’re in a completely non-traditional setting. Start by identifying the times of day when you’re most productive. For me, it’s the early morning. I make it a point to get up around the same time every day, grab a quick coffee, and dive straight into my most important tasks before the distractions of the day set in.

But here’s the kicker—your routine needs to be flexible. Time zones can throw a serious wrench in your plans. I remember a particularly challenging stretch when I was in Bali, and all my clients were back in New York. That 12-hour time difference was a killer! I had to adjust my routine, pushing my work hours later into the day so I could catch my clients during their business hours. It wasn’t ideal, but it worked because I kept the structure of my routine intact.

If you’re struggling to stick to a routine, try using tools like Google Calendar or Trello to map out your day. Block off time for work, but also for breaks, meals, and, of course, exploring. These tools can also send you reminders, so even if you’re tempted to wander off the beaten path, you’ll get a nudge to stay on track.

Trello is great for managing projects and using the calendar view boosts your remote work productivity by keeping you on track.

Remember, the goal isn’t to be a workaholic. It’s about finding a rhythm that lets you stay productive while still enjoying the freedom that comes with being a digital nomad. Trust me, once you get into the groove, your productivity will soar, and you’ll have more time to soak in all the amazing experiences that come your way.

Step 3: Master the Art of Time Management: Your Secret Weapon

When you’re a digital nomad, the sheer amount of things you have to juggle can be overwhelming—work, travel plans, social life, and the ever-present temptation to just ditch it all for a day of sightseeing. Prioritizing tasks effectively is crucial if you want to keep your productivity high without missing out on the adventures that drew you to this lifestyle in the first place.

One method that has been a game-changer for me is the Eisenhower Matrix. It’s a simple but powerful tool for organizing your tasks based on urgency and importance. Imagine a grid with four quadrants:

  1. Urgent and Important—these are your top priorities.
  2. Important but Not Urgent—tasks to schedule for later.
  3. Urgent but Not Important—consider delegating these.
  4. Not Urgent and Not Important—time-wasters you should avoid.

Let me give you an example. During my stay in Lisbon, I had a massive project deadline looming. My priority was clear—get that project done! (Urgent and Important). But at the same time, I needed to plan my next move to another city (Important but Not Urgent). Then, there were tasks like checking emails and social media—things that felt urgent but weren’t actually moving the needle on my main goals. By categorizing my tasks, I was able to focus on what truly mattered, knocking out the big project first and scheduling time later in the week to handle my travel plans.

Focusing on high-impact tasks is another key strategy. It’s easy to get bogged down in the small stuff—answering every email as soon as it comes in, tweaking minor details of a project—but these tasks often don’t contribute significantly to your overall progress. Instead, identify the tasks that will have the most significant impact on your work or your business and tackle those first. For instance, creating a detailed proposal for a new client might take more time and energy than responding to emails, but it’s likely to yield a higher return on your investment.

Now, let’s talk about avoiding productivity pitfalls. Procrastination is the biggest one, and it’s something I still struggle with, especially when I’m in a new place and the urge to explore is strong. The trick is to set clear, realistic goals for each day and stick to them. Break down big tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, and reward yourself when you complete them—maybe a quick walk through the city or a coffee break at a cool café nearby.

In the end, prioritizing effectively isn’t just about getting more done; it’s about getting the right things done, so you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility that come with being a digital nomad. With the right focus, you’ll find that you’re not only productive but also fully present in your travels, making the most of every moment.

Step 4: Leverage Technology: Your Productivity Toolkit

Navigating the digital nomad lifestyle without the right tools is like trying to find your way in a foreign city without a map. Sure, you might get where you need to go eventually, but it’ll take a lot longer, and you’ll likely end up frustrated along the way. Thankfully, there are plenty of productivity apps and tools out there designed to keep you on track, no matter where in the world you find yourself.

One of the first apps I swear by is Trello. It’s a visual project management tool that lets you organize tasks into boards and lists. Whether you’re planning a big project or just trying to keep track of your daily to-dos, Trello’s flexible setup helps you see everything at a glance. I use it to manage both work and travel plans—one board for client projects, another for my upcoming trips. It’s incredibly satisfying to move a task from “To Do” to “Done.”

Another essential tool is Google Drive. When you’re hopping from one Wi-Fi connection to the next, you need a reliable place to store your files. Google Drive allows you to keep all your important documents, spreadsheets, and presentations in one cloud-based location. Plus, with offline access, you can work on your files even when you’re stuck on a plane or somewhere with sketchy internet. Trust me, having your work backed up and easily accessible from any device is a lifesaver.

For communication, Slack is a must-have, especially if you’re working with a remote team. It’s like the digital nomad’s version of an office water cooler—a place to chat, share updates, and stay connected with colleagues. The best part? You can integrate it with other tools like Trello and Google Drive, so everything works seamlessly together. During my time in Bali, Slack kept me in the loop with my team back in the States, despite the 12-hour time difference.

Time management is another big challenge when you’re constantly on the move. Enter RescueTime, an app that tracks how you spend your time on your devices and provides detailed reports. It’s a bit eye-opening (okay, sometimes embarrassing) to see how much time I spend scrolling through social media when I should be working. But RescueTime helps me stay accountable, reminding me to stay focused on the tasks that really matter.

RescueTime is a digital tool that helps you manage your time by blocking out distractions

Lastly, let’s talk about Evernote, the ultimate digital notebook. I use Evernote to jot down ideas, make lists, and even save web articles for later reading. Whether I’m brainstorming blog post ideas on a long train ride or taking notes during a client call, Evernote keeps everything organized and easy to find. Plus, it syncs across all my devices, so I always have my notes handy, no matter where I am.

Evernote helps you keep track of almost everything and stay organized.

Choosing the right tools depends on your personal work style and the nature of your projects. But once you’ve found the apps that work for you, integrating them into your daily routine can transform the way you work. You’ll be more organized, efficient, and ready to tackle the unique challenges that come with living and working as a digital nomad.

Step 5: Set Clear Boundaries: Balancing Work and Personal Life

Balancing work and play is probably one of the toughest parts of the digital nomad lifestyle. When you’re in a beautiful new city with endless things to explore, it’s incredibly tempting to just ditch your laptop and hit the beach or the local markets. But without boundaries, your productivity can take a nosedive, and before you know it, deadlines are looming, and you’re playing catch-up.

I’ve been there. I remember a time in Barcelona when I got so caught up in the city’s vibrant energy that I kept pushing work off until “later.” Later turned into late nights, stress, and a lot of frustration. That experience taught me the importance of setting clear boundaries between work and play.

One effective strategy is to designate specific work hours each day and stick to them. This might sound counterintuitive when you’ve chosen a flexible lifestyle, but having a set start and end time for your workday helps you stay disciplined. During these hours, treat your work time as sacred—turn off notifications, avoid social media, and focus solely on the tasks at hand.

But here’s the catch: it’s equally important to honor your downtime. Once your work hours are over, close your laptop, and step away. This is your time to explore, relax, and enjoy the perks of being a digital nomad. Whether it’s hiking in the mountains, trying out local cuisine, or simply unwinding with a good book, make sure you’re fully present in these moments. This separation not only keeps your work-life balance in check but also ensures you’re refreshed and ready to tackle your next work session.

Another boundary-setting tip is to communicate clearly with clients or your team about your availability. When you’re in a different time zone, it’s easy to feel like you need to be on call 24/7. However, setting expectations about when you’re reachable and when you’re not, can prevent burnout. For instance, during my stint in Chiang Mai, I made it clear to my clients that I would be available for calls in the early morning or late evening, which allowed me to have my afternoons free for exploration.

Remote work productivity can be boosted with the right digital tools.
Remember the trusty calendar for planning working hours as well as downtime.

Sometimes, setting physical boundaries can help too. If possible, keep your workspace and your living space separate. This could mean working from a coworking space, a café, or even just a different room in your accommodation. When you physically separate where you work from where you relax, it becomes easier to mentally switch off at the end of the day.

Lastly, don’t forget to reward yourself. If you’ve had a particularly productive day, treat yourself to something fun—a special dinner, a visit to a local attraction, or just an extra hour of relaxation. These small rewards reinforce the balance between work and play, making it easier to stay motivated and enjoy your digital nomad journey.

Setting boundaries might take some trial and error, but once you find the right balance, you’ll be able to fully embrace the digital nomad lifestyle—thriving in both your work and your adventures.

Step 6: Stay Connected with Your Team: Collaboration is Key

One of the biggest challenges of living a digital nomad lifestyle is maintaining your professional and personal networks. When you’re constantly moving from place to place, it’s easy to feel disconnected from colleagues, clients, friends, and family. However, staying connected is crucial—not just for your career, but also for your mental and emotional well-being.

Let’s start with your professional network. When you’re a remote worker, out of sight doesn’t have to mean out of mind. Regular check-ins with your team or clients can go a long way in maintaining those relationships. I’ve found that scheduling weekly or bi-weekly video calls helps keep everyone on the same page. Tools like Zoom or Google Meet are lifesavers here, offering easy ways to connect face-to-face, even if you’re on the other side of the world.

But video calls aren’t the only way to stay in touch. I like to mix things up with emails and instant messaging through Slack. I’ll send quick updates, share interesting articles, or even just drop a friendly “How’s it going?” message. These small gestures show that you’re engaged and interested, and they help keep those connections strong.

Another thing that’s been helpful for me is attending virtual conferences and webinars. This is a great way to stay connected to your industry, learn new things, and even make new contacts.

Now, let’s talk about personal connections. It’s easy to get so wrapped up in your new surroundings that you lose touch with friends and family back home. To prevent this, I make it a point to schedule regular catch-ups. Whether it’s a video call with my best friend or a group chat with family, these moments of connection are incredibly grounding. They remind me that no matter where I am, I have a support system.

Lastly, don’t forget the power of in-person connections. Wherever you are in the world, there are likely other digital nomads or expats nearby. Joining local meetups or co-working spaces is a great way to build new friendships and professional relationships.

Staying connected requires effort, but it’s worth it. By nurturing your professional network and keeping personal relationships strong, you’ll not only thrive as a digital nomad but also feel more grounded and supported, no matter where your travels take you.

Step 7: Embrace Flexibility While Maintaining Routine

One of the biggest perks of the digital nomad lifestyle is the flexibility it offers. You can work from a beach in Thailand one week and a cozy café in Paris the next. But with this freedom comes the challenge of maintaining a routine, which is essential for productivity and well-being. Striking the right balance between flexibility and routine is key to thriving as a digital nomad.

Flexibility is what makes this lifestyle so appealing, and it’s important to embrace it. After all, the ability to adjust your schedule around your travel plans is one of the main reasons you chose this path, right? However, too much flexibility can lead to a lack of structure, which can quickly derail your productivity. That’s where maintaining a routine comes in.

Let’s talk about how to create a flexible routine that works for you. One of the first things I recommend is establishing a daily rhythm rather than a strict schedule. For instance, you might decide to dedicate your mornings to deep work—focusing on your most important tasks without interruptions. Afternoons could be for meetings, calls, or more routine tasks, while evenings are reserved for exploring your surroundings. This kind of rhythm allows for daily consistency while still giving you the freedom to adapt to different time zones or spontaneous adventures.

Another tip is to set aside time for self-care within your routine. It’s easy to neglect your well-being when you’re constantly on the move, but it’s crucial to make time for things like exercise, healthy eating, and relaxation. Whether it’s a daily yoga session, a walk through a local park, or simply taking time to cook a nutritious meal, these activities help you stay grounded and energized.

The bench says smile, so smile and enjoy the view

While it’s important to maintain a routine, don’t be afraid to shake things up when needed. Some days, you might need to adjust your routine to accommodate a long flight, a late-night work call, or a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see something amazing. Flexibility is your friend here—just be sure to return to your routine as soon as you can to maintain that sense of balance.

Another key aspect of embracing flexibility is learning to go with the flow when things don’t go as planned. There will be days when the Wi-Fi is terrible, or your accommodation isn’t what you expected, or you simply don’t feel like working. Instead of stressing out, try to adapt. Maybe you find a café with better internet or decide to shift your work hours around. The ability to adapt and keep a positive attitude is what will keep you thriving in the face of these challenges.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a lifestyle where your work supports your travel and your travel supports your work. By embracing flexibility while maintaining a routine, you’ll find that sweet spot where you’re both productive and fully enjoying the digital nomad experience. This balance will allow you to make the most of your adventures while still achieving your professional goals.

Step 8: Prioritize Your Health: A Healthy Body Equals a Productive Mind

When you’re constantly on the move, it’s easy to let your health take a backseat. I’ve definitely been guilty of grabbing whatever food is quickest, skipping workouts, and not getting enough sleep because I’m too excited about the next destination. But prioritizing your health and well-being is crucial for sustaining the digital nomad lifestyle in the long run.

First and foremost, let’s talk about food. Eating well while traveling can be a challenge, especially if you’re hopping between countries with different cuisines and dietary options. My advice? Make an effort to incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into your meals, even if that means visiting a local market or grocery store instead of eating out all the time. When I was in Vietnam, I discovered that the local markets had the most amazing fresh produce—way better (and cheaper) than what I could find at restaurants. Plus, learning to cook a few simple, healthy meals in your accommodation can be both fun and rewarding.

Papaya and granola with yoghurt
Fresh fruit is great as a quick and nutritious breakfast.

Exercise is another critical component of staying healthy on the road. You don’t need a gym membership to stay fit—there are plenty of ways to get moving, even if you’re in a small space or constantly changing locations. I’m a big fan of bodyweight workouts and yoga, which you can do just about anywhere.

There are tons of great apps and YouTube channels offering free workouts, so there’s really no excuse! During my time in Lisbon, I made it a point to walk everywhere, not only because it’s great exercise but also because it’s the best way to discover a new city. Plus, there’s something really satisfying about feeling your body get stronger as you explore new places.

Sleep is another area where digital nomads often struggle. Between different time zones, uncomfortable beds, and the temptation to stay out late exploring, getting a good night’s sleep can be tough. But trust me, sleep is non-negotiable if you want to be at your best. I’ve found that establishing a bedtime routine, no matter where I am, helps signal to my body that it’s time to wind down. Whether it’s reading a book, doing some light stretching, or listening to calming music, having a routine can make all the difference. Also, don’t forget to pack a good eye mask and earplugs—lifesavers for blocking out unwanted light and noise.

Mental health is just as important as physical health, especially when you’re living a lifestyle that can sometimes be isolating. One thing that’s really helped me is staying connected with a support system, whether that’s through regular calls with friends and family or participating in online communities of fellow digital nomads. It’s also important to take time for yourself, whether that’s through meditation, journaling, or simply enjoying some quiet time. While I was in Bali, I started a daily meditation practice, and it’s been a game-changer for managing stress and staying grounded.

Lastly, don’t forget about health insurance. It might seem like an unnecessary expense but having good travel insurance that covers health issues can save you a lot of trouble (and money) in case something goes wrong – always be prepared.

Prioritizing your health and well-being might require a little extra effort, but it’s absolutely worth it. When you’re feeling good physically and mentally, you’ll be more productive, more positive, and better able to enjoy all the incredible experiences that come with being a digital nomad. After all, the whole point of this lifestyle is to live life to the fullest, and that’s a lot easier when you’re taking good care of yourself.

Step 9: Keep Learning and Improving

One of the best things about being a digital nomad is the constant opportunity to learn and grow, both personally and professionally. The world is evolving quickly, and staying stagnant isn’t an option if you want to thrive in this lifestyle. From mastering new skills to keeping up with industry trends, it’s essential to keep pushing yourself to learn and improve.

First off, let’s talk about upskilling. Whether you’re freelancing, running an online business, or working remotely for a company, there’s always something new you can learn. I remember when I first started, I was just focused on getting enough work to pay the bills. But as I progressed, I realized that if I wanted to stay competitive, I needed to expand my skill set. There are so many affordable (or even free) online courses out there—whether it’s on platforms like Skillshare, Coursera, Udemy, or YouTube—that there’s no excuse not to keep learning.

Coursera is just one of the many platforms that will allow you to upskill and stay relevant.

Next, you need to stay on top of industry trends. Whatever field you’re in, things change quickly, especially in the digital world. For instance, the tools and platforms that were cutting-edge a few years ago may now be outdated. Following thought leaders in your niche on social media, subscribing to newsletters, or listening to podcasts can help you stay informed without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, it’s a great way to pick up tips and tricks from the pros who are already excelling in your field.

Another key aspect of continual improvement is self-reflection. I try to regularly assess how things are going with my work and lifestyle. Am I staying productive? Could I be managing my time better? What challenges have I faced recently, and how could I handle them differently next time? These reflections help me identify areas for improvement. One thing that’s worked for me is setting quarterly goals, not just for work, but for personal development too. Maybe this quarter’s goal is to improve my video editing skills, or perhaps it’s to learn a new language. Having a plan for improvement keeps you from getting too comfortable and pushes you to constantly evolve.

You should also look at feedback as a key tool for growth. When I first started getting client feedback, I used to dread it. But now, I see it as one of the most valuable learning tools out there. Whether the feedback is positive or critical, there’s always something you can take from it. I’ve received some tough critiques over the years, but each one helped me fine-tune my work and become better at what I do. Now, I actively seek feedback from clients, colleagues, and even friends who can offer an outside perspective on my work. The truth is, other people can often spot areas for improvement that we might overlook.

Lastly, embrace the mindset that failure is part of the process. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve tried something new and failed miserably. From launching projects that didn’t take off to investing time in skills I thought would be useful but weren’t, I’ve made my fair share of mistakes. But here’s the thing: every failure taught me something valuable. The key is not to be afraid of trying new things, even if they don’t work out perfectly the first time. The digital nomad lifestyle is all about adapting and evolving, so learning from failures is a crucial part of the journey.

In the end, the more you invest in your growth and learning, the more opportunities you’ll create for yourself. This lifestyle requires flexibility and a commitment to improving, so always keep your eyes open for new ways to enhance your skills and knowledge. You’ll not only stay competitive but also enjoy a greater sense of fulfillment as you continue to grow and succeed in your digital nomad journey.

Congratulations! You’re now armed with 9 powerful strategies to supercharge your remote work productivity. Remember, becoming a productivity ninja doesn’t happen overnight – it’s a journey of continuous improvement and self-discovery. Start by implementing one or two of these strategies and gradually incorporate more as you find your groove. The beauty of remote work lies in its flexibility, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.

With dedication and the right tools, you’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish from the comfort of your home office (or your favorite coffee shop!). So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to take your remote work game to the next level. Your most productive self is just a few strategies away – go out there and crush it!

If read this far but haven’t gotten started yet, check out this comprehensive guide to spur you on.

Lauren

Hi there! I'm a seasoned remote work pro who's on a mission to help people like you master the art of remote working, no matter where you're working from. After years of trial and error (and a lot of spilled coffee), I've learned a thing or two about the ups and downs of location independence. When I'm not busy sharing my remote work tidbits on anyimeweekend.com, you can find me exploring the world as a digital nomad, hunting for the perfect cup of coffee in whatever city I happen to be in or curled up with a good book.