The digital nomad lifestyle has become synonymous with freedom, adventure, and breaking away from traditional career paths. It’s a mindset—one that emphasizes personal growth, adaptability, and embracing the unknown. For those like Marie Tuason, the path to becoming a full-fledged digital nomad wasn’t linear, but rather a series of intentional choices to step outside their comfort zone.
After finishing a degree in medical engineering in the Philippines, Marie landed a job in Germany. Though not nomadic at first, the opportunity to work remotely two days a week ignited a spark. Seizing the chance, they blended work with travel, exploring 17 countries in one year. This early taste of flexibility planted the seed for a nomadic life.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. The journey came with challenges—burnout, loneliness, and the difficulty of finding like-minded people. “As an extrovert with a low social battery, making connections was hard,” she shared. Early on, Marie relied on established communities in each destination, which helped her navigate the ups and downs of solo travel.
Eventually, COVID-19 and the lockdowns pushed Marie to reevaluate her career. Despite being promoted while working from the Philippines, the pull of the digital nomad lifestyle was too strong. She relocated to Madeira, where she found a thriving community of remote workers. It was there that she finally embraced the identity of a digital nomad.
“The digital nomad lifestyle isn’t a job or a state; it’s a mindset,” she emphasized. It’s not about constantly moving—it’s about the freedom to choose where you live and work. Sometimes, she stay in one place for a year, others only for a few months. But no matter where she were, the goal was always the same: personal growth and pushing past comfort zones.
After several years in the corporate world, Marie transitioned into entrepreneurship, launching a marketing agency she deeply passionate about. Although self-taught, she credit their success to a mix of curiosity and perseverance. “You can shift careers if you believe in yourself, even without a traditional background,” she noted, encouraging others to embrace learning on their own terms.
However, as an entrepreneur, new challenges arose. Unlike her previous role where the workday ended at 5 PM, entrepreneurship demands constant attention. The line between work and life blurred, and financial stability became tied to productivity. Finding the right balance between work, travel, and relationships was crucial.
Today, Marie structures her life in seasons—three months of focused work, followed by three months of leisure. This system allows for deep focus on business when needed, while also making time for personal growth, travel, and relationships.
At the heart of her journey is the desire to connect with others who share the same mindset. “It’s not about money, but about creating a life of meaning and purpose,” she shared. For Marie the digital nomad lifestyle is an ongoing process of growth and discovery—one that doesn’t end with a specific destination but continues with every new experience.
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