The nomad lifestyle isn’t only for young people. On the contrary, there are specific advantages to nomading when older.
Nomading hits different when you’re 35+. I was a nomad before age 35 and also after. I have experienced nomadism from both sides of the 35 coin. And I realize now there are some definite advantages to being a digital nomad after age 35. Not that anyone should wait.
If you’re 22, for example, and you have a plan, go for it. I’ve met nomads of all ages, from 20 to 70+. But if you’re older than 35, and you’re wondering if you’re past your nomad-prime, I’d say definitely not.
There are many reasons why being a nomad when you’re older is an excellent fit.
1. You’re Tired of the In-Office Bullsh*t
You’ve done many years of contorting yourself to try to fit in at different workplaces. And you’re convinced, it’s just not for you. The in-your-face office/organization politics make you nauseous.
You also don’t enjoy dressing up, commuting, or faking smiles and laughter with people who you’d most likely never associate with if it wasn’t for the job.
You’re ready to take a break and hit the road. You don’t doubt this. You know this. It’s just a matter of figuring out how. And, I want you to know, you can figure this out.
2. You’re More Aware of the Limits of Time
By your mid-thirties, you start to gain a deeper understanding that time is ticking. Quickly.
This borders on an almost visceral feeling that your time is limited. Also, what comes with this feeling is the urge to do what you want to do now, not later when you’re retired and it will be harder for your physical body.
You fully understand that time is moving at lightning speed and you do not want to wait until retirement to explore the world or see another country. You also are fully aware of the fragility of life.
‘Here today, gone tomorrow’ isn’t just a catchphrase. It’s the reality of life. And you want to do what you want to do while you’re still able.
3. You Have Valuable Skills and Experience
I help women aged 35+ hit the road (working remotely and traveling independently). One reason I choose to help women in this age group is that they already have skills that can easily translate into a remote job or online business.
If you’re 35+, you’ve likely been working for years and have gathered experience in different work environments.
You know how to handle challenges that come up suddenly. This isn’t to say 20-somethings cannot do the same. But 35+ comes with years of experience that translate well to skills you can use when working and traveling.
4. You Know What You Like
In my 20’s I was still trying to understand what I wanted from life. You can probably relate to this. It’s common. Now, though, I know what I want.
I’m clearer on the things I need to support me. I know the lifestyle that suits my overall health and well-being. And because I have this awareness, I use it to guide me in making decisions about where to go next and when. I also use this awareness to guide me in what to pack and which communities, if any, I want to plug into while on the road.
I see younger nomads struggle to make decisions of where to go and what to bring.
For example, there are some items I carry with me that many would say are too bulky or unnecessary. But I’ve reached a stage in my life where I know what I need and nobody (minimalist or otherwise) can convince me there’s a better way. There’s only their way and my way. I know my way and years of compromising and trying to fit into someone else’s idea of what is ideal have shown me I need to stick to what suits me.
When you’re older, you have a clearer idea of what is a ‘yes’ for you and what is a ‘no’. It’s not so hard of a decision. You know what you want and you don’t want to settle or compromise.
5. You’re Stronger
I feel like my mom writing this, but resilience definitely comes with age, and this helps you as a nomad.
Not that you’re weak when you’re young, but there’s a strength that comes from years of life experiences that add up. Nomadism isn’t all peppermint and sweet cakes. There are a lot of challenges you’ll meet on the road. By the time you reach 35, you understand this about life. You almost expect some things to go wrong because you understand, it’s just the nature of life. Ups and downs are a part of this ride.
Because you understand this, you handle some of the travel challenges with less angst and frustration.
So, if you’re 35+ and thinking of going nomad, do not let age stop you. Do your research, get prepared, and hit the road.
It’s go time!
