Work meets wanderlust – my remote summer adventure
After a lovely week off, sailing down the coast of Brittany, I now sit in the cockpit of our boat, slightly melting in the warmth, but excited to be fully embracing the digital nomad lifestyle. For the next few weeks, I will be combining work and leisure in a way that truly takes advantage of modern technology and remote working possibilities.
I’m going to be working remotely from wherever the wind takes us. Whether anchored in a tranquil harbour, sailing through the open sea, or docked at a bustling marina, I will be staying connected and productive. The flexibility to work from such inspiring locations is one of the great benefits of remote working.
What’s the experience like?
Working from the coast offers a unique blend of both challenges and rewards.
Inspiration away from my desk – I find sitting at my desk can sometimes suck creativity so working from the cockpit can make a huge difference. Here I can draw creativity and motivation from the ever-changing landscapes and the calmness of the sea.
Balance home and work life - maintaining productivity while also making time to explore new places, enjoy local cuisine, and meet fellow sailors really fills my cup and reinvigorates my work.
The struggle for internet – this can be a huge challenge. We’re trying to set ourselves up with StarLink which would mean we’re connected all of the time. Part of me doesn’t want this as it removes some of the magic, but it would reduce my stress levels when I have a deadline to meet and I don’t have WiFi!
Adaptability – I have to be good at changing my plans and sometimes missing out on the fun things the rest of my family are doing as I have calls or other meetings. I also have to adapt based on weather and connectivity – if it’s a ‘lively’ sail, it would mean all hands-on deck.
Setting a schedule – I try and work early, have a break in the middle of the day for a fun adventure, and then work again in the evening. It is not always possible to do this, but I try when I can, and it works well.
Keeping organised – it’s really important to be organised – not only having a fully charged laptop and internet connection when needed, but also really planning what I am working on and making sure that I am as productive as possible without mundane interruptions.
So to that end, I’m going to get on and get busy. I’m excited about this upcoming journey and the chance to blend my work with the joys of sailing. The next few weeks will be busy, challenging and exciting, but I am determined to make the digital nomad in me happy and make work work for me! I will aim to share a few insights, and maybe even a few stories from the sea with you all too.
