Why you Should be a Working Nomad if you are not Already: The Chic Lifestyle

If you’re a working nomad, you know it in your soul. You’re someone who can’t stay tethered to one workspace for too long. The traditional office, home office, or even a dining room table can feel confining after a while. Instead, you seek out new environments, letting your surroundings inspire and energize your work.

As a working nomad myself, I know the feeling all too well. For weeks, I’ll find solace and productivity at my home office. I’ll eagerly settle into my cozy chair, surrounded by multiple screens and familiar creature comforts. But then, almost overnight, the magic wears off. Suddenly, I find myself lacking motivation, avoiding the room, and struggling to sustain focus. That’s when my nomadic instincts kick in.

Next stop: a local Starbucks, where the hum of conversation and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee provide the perfect backdrop for focus. Or maybe it’s a park picnic bench, with the rustle of leaves and the warmth of the sun sparking creativity. Changing environments isn’t just a necessity—it’s an inspiration. Each new space awakens your senses, sharpens your focus, and encourages creativity in ways a static workspace can’t.

Why Changing Scenery Fuels Productivity

Ever notice how refreshed and alive you feel on vacation? That’s because new environments stimulate your brain. They expose you to different sights, sounds, and experiences, which can enhance mood, reduce stress, and boost creativity. When you change your surroundings, your brain releases dopamine—the "feel-good" neurotransmitter—which can improve focus and motivation. This mental reset can help you tackle tasks with a fresh perspective, ultimately enhancing productivity and creativity.

Steven Pressfield, in The War of Art, emphasizes that breaking out of routine and changing your environment can help overcome resistance to creative work. Twyla Tharp’s The Creative Habit also highlights how stepping into new spaces stimulates the brain by disrupting habitual thought patterns. Similarly, Austin Kleon’s Steal Like an Artist encourages exploration as a way to unlock creativity, suggesting that inspiration often comes from engaging with new environments and perspectives. These shifts allow the mind to draw unexpected connections, fostering originality and innovation.

Zoom Calls in Unique Places

One of the unexpected joys of being a working nomad is taking Zoom calls from unique locations. Imagine logging into a meeting from a beachfront café, a park, or even a museum courtyard. These settings not only serve as conversation starters but also as icebreakers. Your colleagues or clients might ask, "Where are you today?" sparking genuine interest and setting a positive tone for the meeting. Showing off your dynamic work environment can convey creativity and adaptability, leaving a lasting impression on those you’re speaking with. As Adam Grant discusses in Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World, stepping outside conventional norms—even in small ways—can foster connection and originality, both of which are key in building rapport and standing out professionally.

Inspiring Places to Work

Looking for your next workspace? Here are some ideas to spark your nomadic spirit:

1. Museums: Many museums offer quiet cafes or seating areas. Surrounded by art and history, you might find inspiration in unexpected ways.

2. Coffee Shops: A classic choice, coffee shops combine the energy of people with the comfort of a hot drink and free Wi-Fi.

3. Park Picnic Tables: My personal favorite! The fresh air, natural light, and open space can make even the most mundane tasks feel a little more special.

4. Libraries: These quiet sanctuaries are perfect for deep focus and often come equipped with excellent resources.

5. Beachfront Cafes: Work with the sound of waves in the background—it’s as soothing as it gets.

6. Hotels: They have all the amenities and an energy supplied by people on the go. Whether you’re in the lobby or a business lounge, hotels provide a professional yet dynamic environment.

   
   

   

   This article was written while visiting my father in the hospital. This open space is great with shops, comfortable chairs, natural sunlight, and fast Wifi. 1-2 hours here then a half hour with my father was my schedule.

   
   

The Working Nomad’s Mindset

Being a working nomad is about embracing change and finding inspiration wherever you go. It’s not just about productivity—it’s about living a lifestyle that sparks joy, curiosity, and creativity. So, the next time you feel stuck in your home office, grab your laptop and explore. Who knows? Your next great idea might be waiting for you at a museum, a picnic table, or a beach at sunrise.

My final advice is Just Do It. Pickup up your laptop and go! Want to know about some of my craziest places I have worked. Check it out here!