Are You Cut Out For The Work From Anywhere Lifestyle?


Key Takeaways:

  1. The work-from-anywhere (WFA) lifestyle offers freedom and flexibility, but it may not be suitable for everyone.
  2. Self-discipline, strong time management skills, and the ability to focus are critical for success in a WFA environment.
  3. Effective communication is essential in a remote work setting to maintain strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and supervisors.
  4. WFA employees need to be adaptable and comfortable with change, as they may need to navigate different time zones, work environments, and cultural differences.
  5. It’s important to consider the impact of a WFA lifestyle on one’s personal life, including relationships, social interactions, and mental health.
  6. Remote workers must be proactive in setting boundaries between work and personal life to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
  7. Before committing to a WFA lifestyle, it’s essential to evaluate one’s personality, work style, and personal preferences to determine if it’s the right fit.

Introduction

The rise of the digital nomad lifestyle has seen more and more people choosing to work from anywhere. It’s a tempting prospect, especially because of its many advantages and benefits, but it isn’t for everyone. Are you considering taking the plunge? This article will help you decide whether the work-from-anywhere lifestyle is right for you.

So are you cut out for the work the from anywhere lifestyle? The work-from-anywhere lifestyle can be a great fit for some people but not everyone. It requires a certain level of self-discipline, motivation, and the ability to be productive in various environments. Some people thrive in a flexible work environment, while others may struggle without a structured office setting.

We’ll look at what it takes to be successful as an employee working from anywhereOpens in a new tab.. We will also explore some challenges that come with this lifestyle. Read on to find out if you have what it takes to make your way around this setup!

What Does A Work From Anywhere Lifestyle Entail?

The idea behind the work-from-anywhere lifestyle is simple. You don’t need to be tied down to one place.

You can work from anywhere in the world, as long as you have a reliable internet connection. This could mean working in your home country or traveling and living around various places. You’re free to pick where you’re able to be productive, just as long as you meet all of your work-related deadlines.

A work from anywhere setup is sure to be a mainstay in the future. Freelance coach Anna-Karin WesterbergOpens in a new tab. says, “For companies out there: There is no turning back on going remote. Start preparing to be fully work from anywhere; even the people who want the office will benefit.

But with freedom comes responsibility. In a work from anywhere lifestyle, you must put in the effort to…

  • stay productive and motivatedOpens in a new tab. no matter where you are.
  • be comfortable with frequent location changes.
  • stay on top of work tasks and deadlines despite your environment constantly changing.
  • manage logistics like housing, transportation, health insurance, and more.
  • adapt quickly to different cultures and customs.
  • connect virtually with friends, family, and colleagues from around the world.
  • network effectively through platforms or professional communities in the places you visit.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Work from Anywhere Lifestyle

Working from anywhere certainly has its advantages, but it has downsidesOpens in a new tab.. These advantages and disadvantages can vary from person to person. If you know your work preferences well, you’ll be able to ascertain quickly if a work from anywhere lifestyle suits you.

Let’s look at the pros and cons of this lifestyle.

Advantages

  1. Flexibility. You have the freedom to work from anywhere in the world. But that’s only as long as you can access a reliable internet connection. 

As RW Solutions Director Christian RaeuberOpens in a new tab. puts it, “We are running remotely, hiring remotely, and love the thought that work can be done from anywhere, really. We are free to choose where.

  1. Unparalleled networking opportunities. During your travels, your network will expand rapidly as you meet new people in different places. You don’t even have to go out of the country to meet like-minded people!
  2. Experiencing different cultures. You gain valuable insights into various cultures and environments when you live and work in different places.
  3. Reduced overheads. Working remotely means lower costs for things like office space and commutes. 
  4. Improved mental health. Being away from home can help reduce stress and boost focus and performance.

From the side of employers, work-from-anywhere has certainly affected employee retention. To learn more, read our piece “Effects of Work From Anywhere on Employee RetentionOpens in a new tab..”

Disadvantages

  1. Difficulty staying motivated. Working in a different place every week can make it hard for some people to stay motivated. 
  2. Isolation. With no co-workers around you, it can be challenging to keep a cheerful attitude. This is difficult without regular human connection.
  3. Technical issues. There may be times when your internet connection is weak or unreliable. This could disrupt work schedules and deadlines. 
  4. Difficulties balancing work and life. Unlike traditional office work, working from anywhere means you’ll have to establish your own boundaries. Sometimes, it’s a challenge for peopleOpens in a new tab. to turn “on” or “off.” Thus, it’s vital to find time for yourself away from work.
  5. Lack of structure. Work from anywhere may lack the structure that comes with having an office job. This makes it hard to stay organized. 

Are You Cut Out for This Lifestyle?

The work from anywhere lifestyle can be rewarding for the right person. Are you self-motivated, adaptable to change, and quick to pick up new skills? If so, this could be a great career path for you.

On the other hand, does the idea of working out of an office or having no support network make you uneasy? Then, it may be best to stick with a typical work setup!

Millennial career coach Cindi WirawanOpens in a new tab. says:

For many who value trust, work life balance, flexibility, freedom and for whom remote/hybrid work is a must such as:

  • Parents, especially single mums
  • Caregivers who need to look after loved ones with medical needs or conditions
  • Those with chronic conditions, disabilities and health issues, including mental health challenges
  • Gen Z and #millennials who value flexibility, freedom and are tech savvy enough to get work done from anywhere

Keep in mind, there are many aspects to consider before making the leap into a digital nomad life. Take some time to research this setup so you can decide if it’s something worth pursuing. 

At the end of the day, it comes down to deciding for yourself. Just make sure it will benefit you in the long run.

How to Succeed with a Work from Anywhere Lifestyle

Have you decided that the work from anywhere lifestyle is for you? Here are some tips to help ensure your success.

Set Goals

Set specific goals for yourself and track your progress so that you can stay motivated and on track.

Connect

Stay connected with colleaguesOpens in a new tab. or friends who can help support you in times of need. 

Liz RyanOpens in a new tab., the founder and CEO of Human Workplace, shares, “Collaboration isn’t tied to location. It’s all about the energy and the trust level on the team. And that is a function of the environment an organization’s leaders create and reinforce through their actions.

Set Boundaries

Remember to healthy set boundaries between your personal and professional life. It’s essential to find balance. 

Use Tools

Take advantage of productivity tools, such as Asana or Trello, to keep organized. 

Seek Support

Don’t be afraid to ask questions or reach out for help when needed.  

Invest

Invest in a good quality internet connection wherever possible. 

Reach Out

Learn how to make the most out of platforms or communities in the places you visit.

Enjoy Life

Make sure to take some time for yourself each day. Don’t forget to enjoy life!

Spencer CampbellOpens in a new tab., an interim VP at NewGlobe, shares a sentiment we all might have had at some point: “‘Work life balance’ is a stupid expression. It’s all life and work is just a piece of it. But, yes, I had a problem with ‘work-life balance.’ Work had totally overrun all aspects of my life that I didn’t know who I was outside of work.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to succeeding with a work from anywhere lifestyle.

To Wrap Up

At the end of the day, keep in mind that while there are many pros to working from anywhere, it has some pitfalls. Make sure you research. Then, weigh the pros and cons before deciding if this is right for you. 

If you’re ready to take on the challenge, then follow these tips! That way, you can succeed in this lifestyleOpens in a new tab. and reach your goals!

Related Questions

  1. What issues typically arise when working from anywhere?

Cybersecurity is one of the biggest challenges employers and employees face with this setup. However, there are many other issues they must address. For instance, miscommunication is another common problem.

To learn more, check out our detailed article entitled “Issues Plaguing Work From Anywhere Employees And How To Solve ThemOpens in a new tab..”

  1. How can you start the shift to a work from anywhere lifestyle?

You can start the process by preparing the tools necessary for this setup. First, you need a computer or laptop and a reliable internet connection. To learn more, read our detailed piece “Creating Your Work From Anywhere ToolkitOpens in a new tab..”

FAQs Covered in this Article

Q: What is the work-from-anywhere (WFA) lifestyle?

A: The WFA lifestyle is a flexible work arrangement that allows employees to work from any location they choose, including their home, a coworking space, or even while traveling.

Q: What traits are necessary for success in a WFA environment?

A: Self-discipline, strong time management skills, effective communication, adaptability, and the ability to focus are crucial for success in a WFA setting.

Q: How can I maintain a healthy work-life balance while working from anywhere?

A: Setting boundaries between work and personal life, creating a dedicated workspace, and scheduling breaks and personal time can help maintain a healthy work-life balance in a WFA lifestyle.

Q: What are the potential drawbacks of a WFA lifestyle?

A: Potential drawbacks include feelings of isolation, difficulty maintaining work-life balance, and challenges with effective communication and collaboration.

Q: How can I determine if the WFA lifestyle is right for me?

A: Assess your personality, work style, and personal preferences to see if the WFA lifestyle aligns with your needs and goals. Consider your ability to manage your time, communicate effectively, and adapt to different work environments before committing to a WFA lifestyle.

Steve Todd

Steve Todd, founder of Open Sourced Workplace and is a recognized thought leader in workplace strategy and the future of work. With a passion for work from anywhere, Steve has successfully implemented transformative strategies that enhance productivity and employee satisfaction. Through Open Sourced Workplace, he fosters collaboration among HR, facilities management, technology, and real estate professionals, providing valuable insights and resources. As a speaker and contributor to various publications, Steve remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of workplace innovation, helping organizations thrive in today's dynamic work environment.

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