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Freelance Skills for UI/UX Designer: Calculating Costs, Quotations, and Contracts
Hi, everyone! I'm Simon, currently a product designer working in Tokyo. After spending some time, I've finally completed this article about the skills of freelancing for designers. For those who haven’t read the previous episode, you can click the link below to read it first: Freelance Skills for UI/UX Designer: How to Choose the Right Projects, and Selecting Clients Carefully? Continuing from where we left off discussing the mindset required before being a freelancer, in this article, we will talk about the things that everyone cares more about, which are the practical problems encountered when freelancing: costs, quotations, contracts, and so on. Without further ado, let’s get started! About the Cost Many people believe that freelancing is all about delivering design results, getting paid by the client, and whatever is left after deducting the costs is the actual profit – a clear-cut concept. In reality, being a freelance designer, the costs you have to bear and the way you calculate those costs might be much more complicated than you think. Costs can be divided into visible and invisible costs: Visible Costs Let’s imagine you are a freelancer;then you will need to use your computer (equipment cost), your space (rent), your design software (legitimate versions require payment), and even utilities, administrative and miscellaneous expenses, and labor and health insurance, etc. Simply put, the resources and benefits you get while working in a company are usually absent when freelancing. Consider this: what if your computer suddenly breaks down during a project? What if the software license expires and needs renewal? What if working from home in hot weather results in high electricity bills due to air conditioning? These are all costs that need to be considered when freelancing. Invisible Costs Apart from monetary expenditures, there are many hidden costs that we might not notice. These costs might not affect your actual income, but managing these costs can significantly impact work efficiency and benefit personal development in the future. Here are a few common hidden costs: 1. Communication Costs: The first cost encountered in freelancing is communication. If there is good communication between both parties during cooperation, everything will be fine. However, if there’s often a mismatch in the understanding of objectives or styles, designers would need to spend a considerable amount of time communicating. Once there’s a mutual understanding and rapport, this communication cost would decrease. Of course, designers can also practice some techniques to persuade clients and reduce these communication costs. 2. Favor Costs: This often appears with well-acquainted clients. Being familiar, you might be more susceptible to price haggling, additional random requirements, or demands, and it might be awkward to refuse them. The added workload in such cases constitutes your favor cost – not doing it might hurt feelings, but doing it increases the burden. This cost largely depends on your relationship with the client and whether you deem it worth undertaking. 3. Learning Costs: In UI/UX freelancing, not every project might be right up your alley. Sometimes it could be an entirely new domain or trying new techniques due to project requirements. Often, you might find yourself spending time researching and investigating, so the actual execution might take longer than expected. This should also be considered when freelancing. 4. Project Management Costs: Since it's freelancing, naturally, no one will supervise your progress. Everything is ‘self-managed.’ Clients will expect deliverables within the agreed time. Whether it's a lag in progress or wanting to expedite the project, you must manage appropriately. If you are handling multiple projects, this cost must also be taken into consideration. In conclusion, there are various kinds of freelance costs. However, it’s essential to note that lower costs aren’t always better. While these hidden costs might sometimes feel overwhelming, appropriate pressure can prevent you from repeating the same mistakes, clarify issues, and guide you in quoting and deciding whether to accept a project or not. Quoting: Not Just Knowledge, but More Like an Art Now, let's discuss an essential question, which many people might be curious about, "how to quote a price." Undoubtedly, quoting is an art of its own. I've struggled for a long time on how to quote accurately. Even now, it is often challenging to give an exact number due to various factors such as personal capabilities & experience, project difficulty, time constraints, and client's budget. There are many methods of quoting for freelance projects available online, presenting a variety of approaches. My personal insight is: there is no standard answer for quoting, only what suits you or the specific project at the moment. Simply put, "Do you understand your worth enough, and do you have sufficient judgment towards the project and the client?" Quoting might seem mysterious, but there are ways to help you make basic judgments. A too high quote might scare off clients, while too low of a quote might not even match a part-time student's hourly wage, and it might adversely affect the market conditions. Quoting by Hourly Rate Currently, I recommend using an "hourly rate" to set your quote. Establish your desired hourly wage and add the estimated project working hours to get a basic quote. To set your "project hourly wage," the simplest way is to consider your current monthly salary and convert it to an hourly wage, then make slight adjustments based on various conditions. For example: if your current salary is NT$ 40,000, working 22 days a month, 8 hours a day, then your hourly wage would be approximately NT$ 40,000/22/8=227. But, remember the costs we mentioned earlier? You can adjust this number upwards. Usually, I would multiply it by 1.5 or 2 times for my project hourly wage, or increase the quote based on the project's difficulty. For urgent projects, I generally increase the quote. Remember, quoting is an art. Sometimes the client is very keen on collaborating with you, but they may be on a tight budget. In such cases, you might evaluate whether a lower price might lead to more potential opportunities and benefits in the future. If you know the client has a considerable budget, you might try quoting a higher price, but remember, a higher quote requires more precise design quality. Let’s Look at a Practical Case Consider a medium-sized App project from a startup company with a limited budget. It has about 5-6 core functions, roughly estimating 70-80 UI pages, including planning the UI flow and wireframe, and finally delivering a complete design draft and exported images for use. In this case, you can think about how much time you need for each stage, adding some flexibility for initial research, communication costs, project management, etc., and then calculate the total hours needed. The calculation method would probably look like this: 227 (current hourly rate) x 2 (cost weighting) ≈ 450 (expected hourly rate) 450 dollars x 120 (estimated working hours) + 450 x 20 (other flexible hours) =NT$ 63,000 (final quote) "The more you understand the client’s specifications and needs, the more accurate the quote you can provide." Using such a simple method, you can roughly estimate a price and then make minor adjustments based on different project conditions. Although, many times, it depends on your experience and whether you know how much time you need to complete the work. After more project experience, you will know what quoting method suits you, and it actually varies from person to person. Therefore, based on the above viewpoint, I often doubt whenever I see someone recruiting for Logo design on PTT with only a 1,500 dollar budget, and there are still many people replying that they want to take the project. In a 1,500 dollar budget, it includes communication, proposal, design, revision, file delivery, and other tasks. If you need at least 10 hours to complete it, the calculated hourly wage is less than NT$150. Is taking this project really good for you? Design is a profession. Accepting projects at a low price is not healthy for the entire market and will also cultivate more clients who do not understand the real market value. So, think thrice before accepting a project and quoting a price. Signing a Contract: Protecting Both Parties' rights In the beginning, when I first started taking graphic design projects, I had a bad habit of not signing contracts. Firstly, it felt like the amount wasn’t substantial, and signing a contract seemed too formal. Secondly, it felt like a verbal agreement should suffice. The result, however, proved otherwise. Either constant revisions were requested, leading to a significant overrun of working hours, or the final payment was delayed for a long time. These are the consequences of not having a contract to bind each other. A "verbal contract" is even less viable in digital design areas such as UI/UX and product design. Compared to graphic design, the process of product creation involves much more communication and modification of requirements. Consequently, the corresponding fees tend to be higher as well. Thus, all aspects such as deliverables, project timeline, development progress, and payment schedule need to be clearly communicated. Therefore, I would suggest that when taking on UI/UX design projects, whether or not you are familiar with the client, it is best to write down a contract, recording all the details. This not only protects yourself but also gives the client a clearer outline of the execution of your project. From my experience, if the cooperation process is smooth, the signed contract is usually just set aside and not really referred to. The contractual constraint, in my opinion, tends to be more "psychological" since cooperative relationships are generally built on "trust," and it’s rare that anyone would intentionally delay or randomly change requirements. However, when actual issues arise, a contract allows both parties to have a unified consensus and reference. How should the contract be structured? Firstly, if possible, it’s better to draft the contract yourself rather than letting the client provide it. Even if the client provides a generic version from their company, the designer still needs to review the details carefully. Ultimately, the contract content should be "jointly drafted" and agreed upon by both parties. There are many contract templates available online that can be downloaded and adjusted based on individual needs. However, there are several key points to pay special attention to: 1. Deliverables: This is crucial. What exactly needs to be delivered at the end of the project? Is it just the visual drafts? Or also the wireframes, flowcharts, or even the original files? Everything that needs to be delivered should be clearly stated in the contract. 2. Project Acceptance Schedule: For UI/UX design, it’s not advisable to complete everything at once and then review. Regular communication (around 1-2 times per week) is ideal, and it’s best if the project content can be accepted in stages. This can align well with the payment schedule and facilitate project progress. 3. Payment Schedule: There are various payment methods, and you can choose based on your own preferences. However, for projects exceeding 100,000 in total, I suggest splitting the payment into at least three parts: initial payment (after signing the contract, before starting work), midterm payment (after the first phase of design is accepted), and the final payment (after all are accepted and files are delivered). 4 .Revision Times: The issue of "unlimited revisions" is quite common and can easily occur if not clearly communicated before the project starts. Conditions for revisions must be clearly stated to avoid this problem. 5. Intellectual Property Rights and Confidentiality Clauses: During the project, content generally can’t be made public. After the project ends, details such as who holds the copyright and whether it can be publicly displayed need to be clearly communicated. How to Conclude a Project At the end of a contract, it is essential to adhere to its stipulations and mutually verify and tally the files to be delivered. If you intend to use a commercial project as part of your personal portfolio, be mindful of whether confidentiality clauses have been signed or if intellectual property rights are mentioned in the contract to belong to the client. Generally, as long as the material is not used for commercial profit, the author should retain exhibition rights to the work. However, it’s prudent to communicate with the client for consent before adding commercial projects to your portfolio, ensuring these are ideally publicized after the project is live. Post-project, remember to maintain good relations with the client. Periodic casual check-ins or expressing interest in the company’s ongoing projects or overall well-being are good practices. Establishing good rapport ensures that you are foremost in the client’s mind when there is a new project or if a friend needs design recommendations. I believe that most clients prefer long-term collaborations, helping to avoid unnecessary preliminary adjustments. Bonus Section: How to Source Projects Finding projects is perhaps a pervasive challenge. However, I personally believe in serendipity. If your capabilities and experiences are well-prepared, you are more assured when opportunity knocks. Here are several sources of projects: 1. Project Platforms: Numerous platforms and channels exist for project outsourcing (such as digital outsourcing websites and ptt_soho, etc.). However, they often come with downsides such as heavy competition, information asymmetry, and varying project qualities. There might also be a membership fee. I personally wouldn’t highly recommend these platforms due to prevalent price undercutting. Clients usually opt for the most affordable designers. Unless you are keen on a bulk of projects, regardless of their nature, finding a worthwhile project here is not highly likely. 2. Networking Referrals: This is a more common and recommended method I use, although it is initially challenging and requires sustained effort over time. Start by getting to know more people in the industry; more acquaintances generally mean more opportunities. Always maintain a good relationship with clients during every project, as satisfactory collaborations could lead to more referrals. 3. Personal Exposure: This is a relatively passive method, but long-term personal branding is recommended, as being 'visible' isn’t so easy in this information-saturated era. Strategies such as social media presence, article writing, sharing works, having a personal website, participating in gatherings, or public speaking can help establish a personal brand. When someone requires design services, your name is likely to pop up in their mind. Conclusion Whether you aim to freelance or become a self-employed worker, behind the apparent flexibility lies responsibility and effort that might not necessarily be less than a regular job. Freelancing is an excellent way to hone one's skills, enhancing time management and productivity within limited timeframes. Hence, it is highly recommended for those who get a chance. Responsible freelancing for both oneself and the client is undoubtedly a rewarding experience. – This article is reprinted from：Simon Lin (article) (This article is translated by the Digital Nomad editor group.)
December 6, 2023
The Downsides of Digital Nomadism! 3 Real Challenges You Should Know
Leaving the office behind and taking only your computer, the world becomes your workspace. This digital nomad lifestyle has long been an aspiration for many, offering a blend of work and life where individuals no longer feel like cogs in a machine but instead have greater control over their lives. But did you know? Many digital nomads eventually choose to return to conventional workplaces. There's a plethora of struggles shared by digital nomads online, shedding light on the reality of their journey, which might not always align with the romanticized image. If you're considering embarking on a digital nomad lifestyle, it's worth understanding the three main challenges frequently encountered by digital nomads. 1. Long-Term Career Development Before diving into digital nomadism, your first thought might be about your career. Planning for long-term career development has long been a concern for those interested in committing to the digital nomad lifestyle, and perhaps it's the most crucial issue. If you have a clear career plan and are still an employee of a company, merely offering your expertise through remote work might alleviate some of the stress. However, some choose to leave their current jobs altogether to pursue freelance work or create their own brands while diving into digital nomadism. This decision often brings to the forefront the issue of unstable income. Can your financial situation handle the uncertainty of project availability and fluctuating income? Moreover, how will this freelance work or brand development contribute to your long-term career growth? These are questions you must contemplate. Many digital nomads leave traditional employment structures to work on a freelance basis or establish their own brands. However, when they encounter career roadblocks or struggle with unstable and slow salary growth, they may become more anxious and ultimately choose to return to traditional workplaces. If you're interested in this topic, you can refer to "Stable Job vs. High-Paying Freelance: Which Is a Better Career Choice?" to help you think through your decision. You can also listen to the "Digital Nomad" series on the podcast "JB's Small Talk." We've interviewed many digital nomads who share their experiences on how to start digital nomadism and plan for long-term careers, which could be valuable references for you. 2. Work Isn't Necessarily Easier Many assume that digital nomadism involves leisurely working at a beachside café while enjoying the ocean view, with thoughts of playtime after work. However, the reality is often quite different. Digital nomads still have work to do, and often the workload is similar to or even greater than when they were employed in a traditional office setting. Without effective time management skills and with constant distractions from the desire to travel, tasks may remain unfinished or not done well. Business matters can also interrupt leisure time during travel, leaving them with a sense of being pulled in two directions. When traveling to different locations, digital nomads may also have to adjust to different time zones to accommodate various companies or clients, leading to further confusion in balancing work and life. Many digital nomads share in online communities that the work pressure of digital nomadism isn't necessarily lower. Some even have to deal with the instability of freelancing or entrepreneurship, making the overall experience not necessarily easier. This is one of the reasons why some ultimately return to traditional workplaces. If work is equally demanding, they might as well return to the stability of a traditional job. In digital nomadism, time management skills are especially crucial. You can refer to articles on time management, which may be helpful to you. 3. Sense of Isolation The digital nomad lifestyle may not be as joyous as you imagine, with the opportunity to make friends from around the world through travel. Since most digital nomads work remotely alone, even if they're employees of a company, they may not be very familiar with their colleagues due to long-distance work. When encountering problems or seeking someone to talk to, it can be challenging to find someone, leading to a profound sense of loneliness. While traveling and working, you may meet other digital nomads along the way. However, these encounters are often fleeting, making it difficult to form deep friendships. Some digital nomads establish communities to connect with others, work together, and maintain contact. They may also organize regular workshops to share experiences. Therefore, before embarking on digital nomadism, consider joining such communities. Not only will you meet more digital nomads, but you'll also build connections. You can also refer to the article "Remote Work Socializing: 7 Ways to Never Be an Outsider Again" to help you make friends more smoothly. These are the realities behind the digital nomad lifestyle shared by many digital nomads. Before starting your journey, evaluate whether your situation is suitable for digital nomadism and seek advice from other nomads, which will be more helpful to you! -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
February 22, 2024
Capital of Digital Nomads! Why is Chiang Mai the Best Choice for Remote Workers?
Stepping into a café in Chiang Mai, you'll find it bustling with remote workers from all over the world. They order a cup of coffee, open their laptops, and begin remote work. Chiang Mai is often hailed as the 'Capital of Digital Nomads,' the premier destination for remote workers and freelancers worldwide. In numerous surveys conducted by media outlets and organizations, Chiang Mai consistently ranks among the top cities favored by digital nomads. Many newcomers to the digital nomad lifestyle choose Chiang Mai as their first stop, and even seasoned digital nomads find themselves drawn back to this city time and again. But why is Chiang Mai so popular? Here are five key reasons that explain why! 1. Low Cost of Living Living in Chiang Mai comes with a remarkably low cost of living. According to statistics from Nomad List , the overall monthly living expenses in Chiang Mai are approximately $980 USD. When it comes to accommodation, you can typically find high-value hotels ranging from $7 to 15 USD per day. Apart from hostels, there are also co-living spaces, short-term apartments, and even upscale condominiums with amenities like swimming pools and gyms available for $320 to 650 USD per month, offering a comfortable living experience. For more detailed pricing information, you can refer to NUMBEO. 2. Safety Chiang Mai boasts excellent safety ratings. In the NUMBEO "Safety Index by City 2024" survey of 333 cities worldwide, Chiang Mai ranked 22, surpassing Singapore at 23 and Tokyo at 25. 3. Abundant Leisure and Entertainment Options Apart from its rich natural and historical attractions, Chiang Mai offers a vibrant nightlife scene. In addition to night markets, numerous bars attract travelers and digital nomads from around the world to socialize and enjoy drinks. Furthermore, many digital nomads organize activities such as sightseeing, jogging, rock climbing, and even boxing, providing ample opportunities for networking and sharing experiences. In Chiang Mai, there's never a shortage of things to do after work! 4. Excellent Working Environment Often dubbed the "Capital of Digital Nomads," Chiang Mai boasts a friendly environment for remote workers, with both reliable internet connections and conducive workspaces. Many cafes offer stable Wi-Fi and power outlets, while numerous coworking spaces, some of which are open 24 hours, cater specifically to digital nomads. Additionally, many accommodations provide dedicated office spaces and meeting rooms for digital nomads, ensuring that finding a place to work is never a concern. 5. Digital Nomad Networking Chiang Mai attracts digital nomads from around the globe, providing ample opportunities to meet and connect with individuals from different countries. Here, you can exchange experiences, seek advice on unfamiliar topics, and build friendships with fellow digital nomads. There are also various digital nomad communities and groups on social media platforms dedicated to Chiang Mai, offering insights into local life and facilitating networking opportunities. Whether you're a novice or seasoned digital nomad, a visit to Chiang Mai, Thailand, is definitely worthwhile! -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
February 22, 2024
3 Strategies for Successful Online Meetings/Interviews: Showing Your Professionalism on Camera
Online meetings and online interviews have become more popular than ever. Since COVID-19, many teams have been turning to online meeting software for meetings and interviews. Mastering the skill of presenting yourself professionally on camera can significantly improve first impressions and enhance interview success. Software Testing: Don't Lose the Battle Before It Starts. A Backup Plan Helps Peace Your Mind Each company has its preferred online meeting software, so you should carry out these 3 checks in advance. Download the specified online meeting software: Don't wait until just before the meeting to realize the other party requires specific software. Update to the latest version: Always make sure your software has been updated. Also, it's wise to have the required online meeting software installed on both your phone and computer as a backup. Have an alternative connection plan: Options like Google Meet, which doesn't need a prior login or even a phone number, are ideal choices. Being well-prepared can show the other party that you are well-prepared and will help ease your anxiety before the meeting or interview. Clothing and Visual Preparation: The Art of Displaying "Professionalism" on Camera Research shows that first impressions are formed within the first 45 seconds of meeting someone. The moment you turn on your camera, you're being evaluated. The following 3 preparations can boost your impression score: Collared shirts are better than collarless, and sleeved tops are preferable to sleeveless. These choices enhance your professional image. If your wardrobe lacks this type of 'work uniform,' investing time in finding one is a good idea, as it will save you the hassle of deciding what to wear before meetings. A clean background is crucial; avoid showing your bed and wardrobe. Even if others know you are working from home, having a bed and wardrobe in the frame can create a 'homely' feel, which should be avoided. Maintain some distance from the camera. It's best to show your hand gestures during conversation: According to research, 55% of communication is non-verbal. Keeping a distance from the camera and allowing your hand movements to be seen can help express your message precisely. Furthermore, You can rehearse with trusted friends before the meeting or interview and record it, allowing you to identify any blind spots and optimize your on-camera image. Avoid Noise for Smooth Communication Once the meeting or interview kicks off, unexpected noises can mess up the communication quality and others' first impressions of you. The following 3 tips can help prevent noise interruption. Mute your phone and turn off app notifications: During the meeting, app notifications or personal messages can mess up the conversation quickly, which should be avoided. Use earphones: This ensures that both parties can hear each other clearly. Keep family and pets away from disturbing: Pick a quiet room, close the door, and inform your family in advance to avoid unexpected interruptions. This helps your online session run smoothly and leaves a positive impression. Building trust in the workplace starts with these small details. As mutual trust grows, future collaboration becomes smoother! -- This article is reprinted from：Farry H（article） （This article is translated by the Digital Nomad editor group.） Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
February 5, 2024
Digital Nomad in Chiang Mai! 8 Recommended Shared Spaces
Many novice digital nomads choose Chiang Mai as their first destination for remote work. Not only is the cost of living low and the city safe, but it also offers abundant leisure and entertainment options, making it a favorite among digital nomads. Read more：Capital of Digital Nomads! Why is Chiang Mai the Best Choice for Remote Workers? Therefore, this article will recommend 8 places in Chiang Mai that are suitable for digital nomads to work and live. The Social Club The Social Club is a hotel located in Chiang Mai, offering complimentary WiFi, air-conditioned rooms, private parking, and room service. Digital nomads can utilize indoor and outdoor shared workspace, meeting rooms, and enjoy complimentary coffee and tea from 9 am to 9 pm. 在 Instagram 查看這則貼文 The Social Club - Coliving & Coworking Space（@thesocialclub.asia）分享的貼文 Punspace Punspace is located in the heart of Chiang Mai's old city, close to many cultural landmarks and eateries. It offers high-speed internet, comfortable desks and chairs, coffee machines, shower facilities, lockers, and other amenities, allowing you to focus on your work. Punspace also fosters a friendly community where you can network and collaborate with people from diverse fields. 在 Instagram 查看這則貼文 Punspace（@punspace）分享的貼文 Yellow Co-Working Space Yellow Co-Working Space is a shared workspace focused on Web3 and blockchain, providing digital nomads and remote workers with communal and private office spaces, meeting rooms, event areas, soundproof Skype rooms, YouTube media rooms, and other modern amenities, entertainment zones, and collaborative facilities. 在 Instagram 查看這則貼文 Yellow Coworking（@yellowcoworking）分享的貼文 Alt_ChiangMai It's a shared space that combines accommodation with workspaces conveniently located downstairs. The venue is clean yet not overcrowded, making it easy to meet many digital nomads here. Regular activities such as yoga, ice baths, and travel excursions are organized, facilitating interaction and learning with people from different countries and fields. 在 Instagram 查看這則貼文 Alt_ChiangMai（@alt_chiangmai）分享的貼文 Akha Ama Phrasingh It's a café located in the old city of Chiang Mai. While it's not a shared workspace per se, many digital nomads still come here to work because of the free charging and WiFi. With two seating areas spread across two floors, it's suitable for both work and leisure. In addition to coffee, they offer various desserts and tea, providing you with a cool sanctuary amidst the heat of Chiang Mai. 在 Instagram 查看這則貼文 Akha Ama Coffee Roasters（@akhaamacoffee）分享的貼文 Life Space Located in the heart of Chiang Mai, this place offers convenient transportation. There are spacious and bright work areas, quiet reading rooms, fast and stable internet, complimentary coffee and tea, comfortable sofas and hammocks, as well as a small garden. You can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of working here. Additionally, they provide multi-person meeting rooms, with regular meeting rooms accommodating up to 4 people and a training room accommodating more than 10 people. 在 Instagram 查看這則貼文 Life Space（@lifespaceth）分享的貼文 One Workspace One Workspace offers digital nomads shared workspaces, meeting rooms, event spaces, and virtual offices. There's also a café called Tora Bake, serving delicious coffee and pastries, allowing you to relax during breaks from work. 在 Instagram 查看這則貼文 OneWorkspace_Chiangmai（@oneworkspace2021）分享的貼文 Hub53 Although Hub53 is located further away from the old city, it offers affordable prices and amenities such as a shared kitchen and laundry room. The shared space has everything you need, and there are user-exclusive groups where you can organize outings and activities. 在 Instagram 查看這則貼文 Hub53 Coworking & Coliving（@hub53coworking）分享的貼文 -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
February 23, 2024
Taiwan "Employment Gold Card" for Digital Nomads：Steps on How to Apply for It
For many digital nomads, Taiwan is an ideal destination with its pleasant climate, friendly people, and delicious cuisine. However, one of the significant concerns for these individuals is obtaining a visa. Currently, Taiwan does not have a dedicated visa for digital nomads, and many rely on regular stay visas, allowing a maximum stay of only 90 days, which is insufficient for those accustomed to longer stays in one location. To retain these high-skilled talents, boost tax revenue, and stimulate the consumer market, the Taiwanese government introduced the "Employment Gold Card" in 2018, a card with functions similar to a digital nomad visa. What is Taiwan's Employment Gold Card? The Employment Gold Card is valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the applicant's preference, with the option to reapply upon expiration. All application procedures can be completed online without the need for physical documents or external consultants, private institutions, or companies. Employment Gold Card Application Requirements The Employment Gold Card is a document that consolidates work permits, residence visas, foreign resident certificates, and re-entry permits into one, providing eligible foreign talents the flexibility to freely seek employment, work, and change jobs during its validity. Applicants must have a monthly salary of at least NT$160,000, which can be from foreign or domestic income. Relevant proof documents must be provided and reviewed by the Ministry of Labor. Professionals with high skills in 11 specific fields, meeting the respective conditions for each field: Technology、Economy、Education、Culture and Arts、Sport、Finance、Law、Architecture、National Defense、Digital、NDC Special Case Review。 Application fees: Note that application fees differ for those holding U.S. passports, both applying abroad and after entering Taiwan! For U.S. passport holders applying abroad: NT$6,460 for one year, NT$7,460 for two years, NT$8,460 for three years. For U.S. passport holders applying after entering Taiwan: NT$3,700 for one year, NT$4,700 for two years, NT$5,700 for three years. For holders of passports from other countries: NT$3,700 for one year, NT$4,700 for two years, NT$5,700 for three years. Residents of Hong Kong and Macau: NT$3,100 for one to three years. How to Apply for the Employment Gold Card 1. Register and Fill out the Application Form First, create an account on the Foreign Professionals Online Application Platform website. After creating an account, be sure to fill in all required information, using the same format as your passport when entering Taiwan. 2. Pay the Application Fee After completing the application, you will receive an email with a 12-digit application number. Save this number for future inquiries or contacting customer service. Next, use your credentials to log in again, click on the "Online Payment" tab, and pay the application fee. Note: The Taiwanese platform does not support China UnionPay cards or American Express cards. Online payments only accept JCB, VISA, and MasterCard credit cards, and no refunds are provided after payment. Once payment is complete, the case enters the review and verification stage. 3. Review and Verification The Taiwan Ministry of the Interior's Immigration Agency will review the data you submitted, and the process takes approximately 20 working days. Plan accordingly if applying upon arrival in Taiwan. After approval, applicants will receive an automated approval notification email. You are required to submit your passport for inspection at the Consular Affairs Bureau or the representative office of the Republic of China (Taiwan) that you selected. Submit the passport along with the passport submission notice received via email. The verification process takes about one week, after which you will receive an email notifying you that your Gold Card application has been approved. 4. Collect the Gold Card If applying within Taiwan, download the electronic receipt from the online application platform and bring it, along with your passport, to the service center of the National Immigration Agency for card collection. For those applying from other countries, enter Taiwan with the "Republic of China Employment Gold Card Overseas Approval Certificate." You can find this certificate in the "Downloads" section of the application platform. Be sure to print this document in color for it to be valid. Benefits of Applying for the Employment Gold Card 1. Taxation: Digital nomads in Taiwan without any personal or business interests are exempt from income tax for the first 183 days of stay. For digital nomads whose salary is not from Taiwan, it can be tax-free. Foreign workers coming to Taiwan for the first time enjoy a direct halving of taxes on amounts exceeding NT$3 million in annual salary for the first five years. 2. Healthcare: Taiwan's healthcare is affordable and widely accessible, providing a significant advantage for digital nomads planning to temporarily depart from their home country's healthcare system. Digital nomads residing in Taiwan can join the National Health Insurance after six months of obtaining their resident permit. However, Employment Gold Card holders employed in Taiwan or in positions with Taiwanese employers and self-employed individuals are exempt from the six-month waiting period and can directly enroll in the National Health Insurance for themselves and their dependents. In summary, Taiwan's Employment Gold Card partially addresses the absence of a dedicated digital nomad visa. If you meet the criteria, consider embarking on a digital nomadic journey in Taiwan! -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
January 24, 2024
Stay with a Fixed Rate Every Day in Tokyo! Try the Hotel Booking Website "HafH"
When it comes to digital nomadism, which city comes to your mind first? Many might think of Lisbon, Bali in Indonesia, or Chiang Mai in Thailand. However, according to statistics from Nomad List, in 2023, Tokyo, Japan has surpassed numerous cities worldwide to become the fastest-growing hub for digital nomads. In response to this trend, the Japanese government is also planning to launch a digital nomad visa in March 2024. Suppose you're planning to experience the digital nomad life in Japan, besides keeping track of visa information, you might want to get acquainted with the subscription-based hotel booking website "HafH", which has seen increasing popularity in Japan recently. HafH, short for "Home away from Home", is a Japanese subscription-based hotel booking website. Unlike traditional booking methods, where room prices fluctuate significantly based on weekdays, weekends, and seasons, HafH offers users a fixed rate for accommodation every day if they participate in a monthly subscription plan. By subscribing, users can access a consistent price regardless of the date. They can stay at any of HafH's partner accommodations worldwide. Furthermore, as the subscription months increase, users can attain different levels of VIP status, leading to discounts ranging from 5% to 10% on subsequent bookings. A stable price helps plan nomadic expenses more accurately and saves costs on specific accommodation options. HafH collaborates with over 2,000 accommodations in more than 30 countries, with the highest concentration in Japan, followed by South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. How Does This Service Work? Who Is It Suitable For? HafH officially started supporting Traditional Chinese in October 2023, catering to users in Taiwan and the global Chinese-speaking community. The current subscription plan is priced at $49.99 per month (approximately NT$1,558), offering users 200 HafH Coins monthly, which can be used to book accommodations on the website. Additionally, users can purchase extra HafH Coins through their accounts utilizing a credit card. The cash price for purchasing HafH Coins is: $25 (approximately NT$780) for 100 HafH Coins. The monthly limit for additional HafH Coin purchases is 6,000 (1,000 for the first subscription month). HafH provides over 120 accommodation options in Tokyo, spanning a wide price range from 75 HafH Coins per night (approximately NT$575) for a youth hostel to over 3,000 HafH Coins per night (approximately NT$23,034) for a luxury hotel. Comparing the prices on HafH with those displayed on individual accommodation websites, it appears that staying at specific accommodations through HafH is more affordable. When calculated every month, considering the long-term subscription VIP discounts, significant savings can be achieved. However, it's important to note that some accommodations may be cheaper when booked directly through their official websites or other channels. Therefore, before deciding to use HafH's subscription service, it's recommended to browse their website to confirm if the desired accommodation offers a cost advantage through HafH. In addition to considering cost-effectiveness, users should be aware that HafH has a monthly limit of 6,000 HafH Coins for additional purchases. Therefore, if you intend to book accommodation for an entire month using HafH, the accommodation cost per night must be restricted to within the range of 200 HafH Coins. On HafH, you can experience unique and comfortable youth hostels within this price range, providing opportunities to connect with travelers worldwide and expand your network. Suppose you prefer staying in business hotels and having independent spaces, even though HafH may not cover your entire month's accommodation. In that case, you can try "accumulating points for accommodation." For example, by saving the HafH Coins received each month with the subscription plan, after three months, not only will you accumulate 600 HafH Coins, but you'll also be eligible for a 5% discount on room rates, allowing you to exchange them for a few nights at a higher-end hotel without additional expenses. One of the youth hostel options available on HafH: unito CHIYODA. (Photo from HafH official website) One of the hotel options available on HafH: HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU. (Photo from HafH official website) Another hotel option available on HafH: HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU. (Photo from HafH official website) However, the most cost-effective way to use HafH depends on your accommodation needs. For those accustomed to long-term stays within a particular hotel system, accumulating memberships with specific hotel groups or taking advantage of credit card promotions is more economical. In conclusion, before embarking on your digital nomadic life in Tokyo, consider the above information and evaluate whether HafH's services suit your needs. For more detailed usage information, such as the platform's mechanism allowing "free cancellation up to the day before" and the option to apply for "membership dormancy" if there's no immediate need for usage, you can visit the FAQ section on the HafH website. Additionally, you can contact them and ask questions through HafH Taiwan's official LINE account or their Instagram. You Can Also Book Hotels in Taiwan on HafH Apart from being used to book accommodations during your stay in Japan, when HafH officially started its services for Taiwanese users in October of last year, it also announced partnerships with 150 accommodations in Taiwan. Unlike the diverse choices available in Japan, the focus in Taiwan initially leans towards collaborations with high-end hotels. Options include Regent Taipei, Palais de Chine Hotel, The Lalu Sun Moon Lake, Eslite Hotel, and Mandarin Oriental Taipei. Additionally, there are more affordable choices like the Just Sleep series, Green World Hotels, and City Suites. You can also use HafH to stay in their partner accommodations in Taiwan or other countries. -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
February 7, 2024
Amazon Ad Manager Jessica Exclusive Interview | How Should Remote Workers Deal with Bosses Who Love Con-Calls?
Since 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic has swept the world, and the high transmissibility of the virus has made remote working the new norm. However, in Asia, this new working model also faces new challenges. Meaningless progress meetings, frequent online check-ins, and even occasional phone disturbances have disrupted work rhythms, leading to delays in progress. What's worse, the feeling of being monitored all the time adds a lot of pressure when working. Jessica currently works at the well-known e-commerce company Amazon, serving as a senior sales strategy and operations manager for advertising. She is responsible for data analysis and strategic planning for advertising business. During the pandemic, she worked remotely for up to two years and has had remote working experiences in companies in China, Taiwan, and the United States. Therefore, we have specially invited her to share her observations and how to adapt to the remote office culture in Asia. "Enterprises in Asia tend to be more process-oriented," Jessica said. In the United States, the work culture leans more towards a responsibility system. As long as you can complete the tasks within the deadline, managers and bosses don’t really mind whether you are online during working hours. For example, Jessica shared a situation when working remotely in the United States, where a colleague would be offline for one to two hours every working day because she had to pick up her children from school. Sometimes, due to traffic jams during the pick-up, the offline time would be even longer. However, in the working culture of Asia, even if you can deliver results on time, managers still hope that you stay online during work hours, allowing them to follow your work and project status at any time. In other words, they expect you to stay online all the time when working remotely. Even if communication software does not have to be on call all the time, it is still necessary to maintain an online status, as this is the only way they can ensure that you are actually solving problems. “In the past when we were in the office, we would hold a progress meeting once a week, but after starting remote work, the supervisor suggested changing the progress meeting to be held every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.” Jessica believes that, generally speaking, most enterprises in Asian countries tend to be more process-oriented. This trend stems from Asian leaders' lack of trust in employees. They believe that as long as employees are not supervised by managers, they will definitely be lazy. Even in foreign companies in Asia, or foreign managers working in Asia, under the influence of Asian culture, they still hope to see employees obediently staying in one space on call during working hours. So, how do we reduce this kind of situation? First of all, we need to understand the reasons behind the excessive questioning behavior of managers. The Root of Distrust Comes from the Opacity of Information As mentioned earlier, the reason many Asian companies adopt a process-oriented approach is due to the distrust of higher-ups towards the grassroots. This sense of distrust actually stems from anxiety about a lack of transparency in information. When working in the office, supervisors or bosses can find you at any time, and can constantly check on your work progress and whether the current results meet their expectations. However, when working remotely, the inability to communicate face-to-face in real time can easily make them feel a loss of control over the progress. They fear that the project may be delayed due to employees slacking off, or that they may only discover that the results do not meet their expectations at the final stage. Not only would the previous efforts be wasted, but the cost of subsequent modifications could also be significant. So, what should we do if we want to reduce managerial interference and alleviate anxiety caused by opaque information? "Proactive reporting" would be a better approach. Key Points and Framework of Proactive Reporting Proactive reporting refers to preparing a "work progress and results report" in addition to regular progress meetings. The content of the report must include three key points: 1. Completed Projects This Week This part is mainly a simple report of the achievements of this week. We can discuss what problems have been solved and what tasks have been completed this week. If there are closed cases or data reports, they can be attached to the email for the manager to review. 2. Ongoing Projects This Week Here, we can briefly mention the progress of the tasks underway this week. It's not necessary to detail how much percentage of each task has been completed, but we can mention what stage we are currently at, and whether there is a need for the manager to provide assistance. If there are difficulties or bad news, we can also explain the situation in the message. For example, if the project is delayed, the client increases requirements, or there are errors in data verification, we can let the manager know. This way, the manager will know that we will not only report good news but also know how to provide help. 3. Tasks to Be Carried Out Next Week Finally, we can tell the manager about the tasks we plan to carry out next. If resources are needed, they can also be proposed at this time to let the manager know. This not only allows the manager to understand the work progress but also plan the resource allocation in advance. Building a sense of security forms a virtuous cycle You might wonder: "The boss will actively hold meetings to ask questions, why do I still have to take the initiative to report?" Although progress meetings are held every day, such meetings usually involve the entire department, and everyone takes turns reporting what they do every day. However, the boss may not remember all these routine reports. Therefore, our weekly reports actually serve as a record of individual daily progress meetings, with integrated information value. Moreover, taking the initiative to report seems to increase the workload, but it provides an excellent opportunity to shape one’s image when working remotely. When you proactively provide project progress every week, not only can it reduce the insecurity felt by leaders due to lack of information, but it also allows them to develop an impression of you as someone who "continuously solves problems" and "continuously creates value." Over time, this will generate a sense of trust, and when better opportunities arise, they will naturally think of you first. In fact, whether it is remote work or working in the office, managers' anxiety about information has always existed. However, when working remotely, because they cannot see the working conditions of employees, this anxiety may turn into doubt, leading to intense scrutiny. However, if we choose to proactively provide information to make up for this information gap, then their monitoring intensity will naturally be reduced, thus forming a virtuous cycle. -- (This article is translated by the Digital Nomad editor group.)
December 7, 2023
Stable Job vs. High-Paying Freelance: Which Is a Better Career Choice？
This time, I’m going to answer a question from a reader, Xiao Jing (pseudonym). Her letter is as follows: -- Dear Joe and Bryan, Hello! Whenever I am lost and doubtful, I always habitually search for articles from "Darencademy" . I am also a loyal listener of "JB’s Small Talk", thank you for sharing beneficial things; I have genuinely gained a lot. I have a doubt in my heart that I have been hesitating for a long time.I am an office worker and also a mother of two children. Because I have no professional skills, I have been engaged in administrative jobs for many years, receiving a fixed salary. My monthly salary is about NT$ 30,000 and overtime pay is calculated separately. Last year, by chance, I started a freelance job. This job is very similar to tutoring, where customers are introduced through a platform, and I negotiate hours with customers and go to their homes to provide teaching and guidance. Since the pay is quite good, where I can actually receive NT$ 400 to 500 per hour, I have taken cases part-time on holidays. At present, I find it very interesting and fulfilling, and customer satisfaction is also high, with many customers booking the next teaching service. However, I can only take cases on holidays, so the actual hours are not many. And usually, because I have a full-time job, I can only use the time outside of work to read books and improve the knowledge and abilities needed for freelance work. Therefore, I started to think about whether to quit my full-time job and devote myself to freelance work. I have made a preliminary evaluation myself: I like the simplicity, regularity, and content of my full-time job, and I get along well with my colleagues, but the salary will not grow, and I cannot have enough time to accumulate freelance experience. In terms of freelance work, I like its flexibility and high hourly pay, and I also have time to take care of my family. But if I devote myself to freelancing, I am very worried whether the income is stable enough to support family expenses, and whether my body can handle running around and teaching for a long time. Moreover, for such a job change, I also have to face the unpredictable risks after stepping out of my comfort zone. I like both jobs very much, but each has its pros and cons, and I don’t know how to choose. Facing such a problem, how should I set evaluation criteria? Can both teachers give me some advice? Xiao Jing -- In response to Xiao Jing’s question, that is, "Should I give up a stable, low-paying job and engage in unstable but high hourly paid freelance work?" As usual, I will not give a standard answer directly because my knowledge of some details in her life is limited. It’s difficult to directly suggest choosing A or B. However, through this article, I want to provide some of my thought processes to give everyone facing similar issues some references. First, before choosing between two jobs, the most fundamental thing is to consider the following two questions. Question One: Do You Like This Job? No matter which job is chosen, whether you like the job is a crucial prerequisite. Because if you don't like a job, even if it pays well, it will be hard for you to be fully invested and enjoy doing it well. You might ask: "Can’t I do a job that I don’t like?" Yes, you can, but there are only two situations where I think the job can still be done even if you don’t like it. First, you might not like the job, but you are very good at it and can easily complete it. This way, at least you can get economic returns and a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, the economic returns of the job are incredibly high, for example, the job allows you to feel super worthwhile and forget the parts you don’t like. Encountering these two situations, I think you should just go for it! After all, there can be significant returns in accomplishments and salary. However, for most people, there are actually few opportunities to encounter such situations. Therefore, I still recommend everyone to choose a job they like. Question Two: What Exactly Are You Pursuing in Your Work? Everyone has their own goals when going out to work. For instance, some people might not be after the salary but rather look to make friends, while some hope to achieve a balance between work and life. I think there is no right or wrong in these pursuits. However, you need to delve deep into your heart. During the work process, what is the most important thing that you gain from investing a month or a day of your time? This can help clarify what goals you want to pursue in your work. Whether you choose a stable, low-paying job or unstable, high hourly paid freelance work, or even when choosing any job, the above two questions are fundamental things we should consider to help understand what we want. When you know what you are seeking, you can move on to the next stage of consideration, evaluating whether to give up a stable job to choose freelancing. In particular, although freelancing seems to offer a high hourly wage and flexible hours, I believe two things still need to be assessed: First, the Long-Term Nature of the Work Compared to regular full-time jobs, freelancing is generally more unstable. For example, you might initially think that due to inconsistent client sources, it cannot maintain stability for a long time. But I suggest you should think further ahead what is the long-term demand for this freelance job? For instance, if you are tutoring, helping students with physics or math, and if there are no significant changes in the education system or curriculum, perhaps you can do this job for a long time. However, if the knowledge you are teaching now is a short-term trend, like many people doing Podcasts in recent years, you might think you can teach people how to record programs, purchase equipment, etc. This year, there might be people wanting to learn, but next year or the year after, Podcasts might go out of fashion, and then nobody will want to take your class. So, you still have to evaluate whether the content of this freelance job has long-term demand. Second, Financial Considerations Let's do a simple calculation. If your current full-time job pays NT$ 30,000, plus freelancing on holidays, you can earn NT$ 40,000 a month. However, suppose you fully commit to freelancing and earn an hourly wage of NT$ 500. Working 80 hours will give you NT$ 40,000. Eighty hours are equivalent to 10 working days. If your freelancing is stable and legitimate, then in about 20 working days a month, you could earn NT$ 80,000. However, many freelancing jobs, despite seeming to offer a high hourly wage, might still involve many hidden costs. For example, commuting costs might be incurred when you travel to different tutoring students' homes. Moreover, some tutoring platforms might also take a commission from your earnings, among other considerations. These are all crucial factors because they imply that even if you work full-time, there will be an upper limit to the hours you can freelance. Next, the stability of your clientele is, of course, a critical consideration in deciding whether or not to switch to full-time freelancing. So, if financial factors are crucial in your consideration, I would suggest you test it gradually. Wait until the freelancing work is stable, and the financial aspect is comparable to your full-time job or at a level you can accept before considering committing full-time to freelancing. Lastly, I would like to discuss a concern mentioned at the end of Xiao Jing's letter, which is "stepping out of the comfort zone might encounter unpredictable risks." Let’s reconsider the concept of the "comfort zone." Many people might feel that working in a company for 20 years, with familiar supervisors, colleagues, and mastering the job, is their comfort zone. But I don't think so. I believe the "comfort zone" refers to an environment that you can fully grasp and control. However, there is actually no permanent comfort zone in life; instead, you should continually strive to expand the boundaries of your comfort zone. What does this mean? Think about it. You are currently engaged in an administrative position, which seems stable, but suppose one day your boss wants to replace you with someone younger and lower-salaried, you are forced to leave the position, and it's no longer your comfort zone. Especially, the replaceability in administrative jobs is high; you can’t fully assure everlasting security in this position. If you suddenly consider freelancing when forced out without preparation, it implies instability in your situation. But if you start preparing now, embracing it with a part-time mentality, building a reputation, optimizing processes, and considering how to gain a more stable clientele, then over one or two years, as you gain more control over the freelancing work, it becomes your next comfort zone. When the comfort zone of your full-time job crumbles, you’ll still have another comfort zone to turn to. Moreover, sometimes what you consider a comfort zone is not genuinely "comfortable." For instance, in your original family home, you may be accustomed to your room, bed, etc., and unwilling to leave. However, without autonomy, where parents might storm into your room in anger, it’s not truly comfortable; it's just that you are used to it. I've always believed that "autonomy" is crucial within a comfort zone. Imagine moving out and living independently as you grow older. Although initially, there are adjustments and numerous matters to handle yourself, once you step out, the new home becomes your new comfort zone where no one can disturb you. You can play video games until midnight or do whatever you want, extending your autonomy and controlling the situation. That’s true comfort. When you continuously expand your comfort zone while maintaining autonomy, that’s when you can genuinely thrive for the long term! You can also accompany this article with our Podcast show "JB's Small Talk". -- Narrator／Joe Chang ；Editor／Amanda Chiu (This article is translated by the Digital Nomad editor group.)
December 5, 2023
Work Remotely at Sea! Try "Cruise Nomadism" for a New Life
With the push of modern technology, remote work has become a trend. Many digital nomads, whose work is primarily remote, are constantly searching for places that can inspire creativity and provide a comfortable environment. And now, cruise ships might become a new option for these individuals. Why might cruise ships become a new choice for digital nomads? Cruise travel offers many advantages, including a one-stop accommodation, transportation, and dining solution. It also allows you to visit multiple cities or countries in one trip, enjoying everything from beautiful fjords and spectacular volcanic views to charming beaches. Moreover, cruise ships can reduce the hassle of arriving in new cities. With facilities like gyms, gourmet restaurants, and swimming pools on board, you can visit new cities when the ship docks. You can return to the ship if you can't find a suitable restaurant ashore or wish to exercise. This way, you can enjoy the nomadic lifestyle while benefiting from the comfort and convenience of cruise facilities. However, the internet is a significant reason why cruise ships have yet to be a choice for digital nomads. Because mobile phones can't receive signals in the vast sea, far from land-based towers, cruise ships offer paid internet and phone services, but they use satellite signals, which are expensive and sometimes unstable. According to an interview by Business Insider with cloud engineer Ryan Gutridge, who nomads on cruise ships, WiFi quality directly affects work efficiency. The Italian Costa Cruises' parent company has announced that all its ships have installed Starlink as the onboard WiFi system, which will significantly reduce the problem of unstable signals. Starlink, a low-orbit satellite system launched by the space services company SpaceX, provides high-speed internet globally, whether on land, mountains or at sea. Starlink satellites orbit the Earth about 300 miles above the surface; this shortened geostationary orbit increases internet speed and reduces latency, effectively meeting the internet needs of digital nomads. But with hardware issues resolved, what should you consider before starting a cruise nomad lifestyle? 1. Choose the Cruise Line Carefully According to The New York Times, a Turkish company, Miray Cruises, announced a bold plan in March 2023. They launched a cruise called "Life at Sea," promising to travel worldwide in three years and establish a maritime community. Passengers on this cruise could use the onboard Starlink internet to experience a global digital nomad lifestyle. However, after the announcement, although half of the cruise's cabins were immediately booked, by December, the owner of Miray Cruises announced in an interview the cancellation of the "Life at Sea" cruise plan due to insufficient funding, preventing them from building the ship as initially claimed. This undoubtedly disappointed those looking forward to the project, with many asking for refunds, which were delayed. Therefore, if you want to experience cruise nomadism, it's best to research and read reviews about the cruise company before departure to avoid bad experiences. 2. Evaluate Financial Situation According to Business Insider, Ryan Gutridge mentioned that the introductory ticket price for the cruise is $30,000. Still, he received many discount schemes from the cruise company's membership program, such as consumption credits and free internet. He calculated that his expenses on the ship were almost equal to what he would spend renting an apartment in Florida, including garbage disposal fees. However, he still prepares an online financial form every year, recording all his expenses to clarify his financial situation. 3. Maintain a Routine Ryan Gutridge states that working life on the ship requires as much self-discipline as on land. From Monday to Friday, he maintains his routine, works in the morning, eats a healthy diet, avoids sweets, and regularly goes to the gym, limiting alcohol consumption to weekends. Additionally, some services, such as computer repair, may not be available on the cruise, so it's necessary to identify related sites on land before the ship docks. Making efficient use of the time ashore enhances the nomadic experience. Cruise nomadism opens a new door for those seeking freedom and adventure. Facing the future, those longing to live and work at sea can look forward to a more convenient and comfortable journey. With each voyage, they leave footprints on the map, exploring and discovering themselves in the vast ocean of life, enjoying every moment. -- Responsible Editor／Jeremy Lee Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
February 20, 2024
Corporate Consultant Elva Lee Exclusive Interview | How Does Travel Magically Relieve My Work Anxiety?
“It was such a coincidence! I had just booked a flight to Toronto on October when I received your invitation!” Dressed casually, a change from her usual formal attire when teaching project management courses, Ms.Elva Lee came to our office. Even though the topic this time was relatively relaxed, her tablet was still filled with densely written notes. Traveling alone to other countries for the first time when she was young, she has 24 years of travel experience. She has visited nearly 70 countries and over 600 cities. Aside from a few group tours (like choosing a group tour to Egypt for safety reasons or coordinating with friends' plans), most were solo free-and-easy travels. What is the charm of traveling that makes her insist on making time for it despite a busy schedule? After some thought, she said that travel was an exceptionally essential form of rest in her hectic daily life, “I want to emphasize that it is the kind that is felt profoundly.” Why emphasized that “is felt profoundly”? She explained that people inevitably feel physically and mentally tired amidst busy lives. Sufficient sleep might ease physical tiredness, but mental exhaustion is more challenging to resolve with rest or idling. The issue is that many people often don't realize this, thinking that sleep or idling will help, only to feel more tired. As time is wasted, mental anxieties deepen. In her view, the first thing to do when feeling tired is to identify whether it's physical or mental, “If you still feel tired despite getting plenty of sleep, and feel desperate and powerless when a new day begins, it might not be physical tiredness, but mental exhaustion.” Physical tiredness requires doing less, but mental exhaustion might require doing more: finding a suitable “state-changing track” to distance oneself from work pressures. For Elva, travel is a fabulous way to change her state. “Travel is just like project management. Initial planning involves cost, schedule, risks, etc., but unexpected changes often occur after setting off, such as missing a ride or a restaurant being closed, requiring quick adaptations.” She explained. Limited travel time and unfamiliar external environments naturally lead us into a “relaxed yet focused” state of flow during travel. This so-called “state change” is inadvertently practiced during this process. (Photo by Elva Lee) The adaptation process has its wonders, simplifying to a “think repeatedly about what you want (like what to eat or where to go) and then quickly satisfying yourself” process. Compared to the frequent feelings of helplessness at work, these opportunities for freedom and self-satisfaction often bring significant healing effects. “Many people look forward to the destination when it comes to traveling, but I am most fascinated by the journey itself, whether by boat, plane, train, or car...” Besides relieving stress, travel holds another crucial value for Elva - it aids in thinking. She stated that long-haul flights, a nightmare for many, are her favorite time for contemplation and reading. Even being idle during these times feels like being infused with new energy. “When the plane is high in the sky, it feels like a magical environment where time and space cannot be clearly defined. I can filter out distractions and receive new insights in this environment filled with white noise. It might be due to being forced to widen my horizons!”she explained. What does “filter out distractions” mean? She provided an example from her experience as a junior manager, where she frequently faced tough decisions, such as resolving a "human" issue for the organization. Immersed in the work environment, she was constantly preoccupied with immediate concerns like workforce allocation and the team's reactions to changes. However, during a long flight, in the enchanting environment thirty thousand feet up in the air, she entered a different perspective: looking back years from now, what decision would be best for the organization? This perspective helped her to make a decision finally. (Photo by Elva Lee) “It's fine if you can't go abroad; taking a train in Taiwan can create such an environment too.” She shared. She has a routine annual train trip around the island, a practice maintained for eight years, sometimes even making a round trip within a day. For her, the journey has one purpose: not for leisure or entertainment but to create an undisturbed environment allowing for focused reading, thinking, and complete rest. In her journeys, she gains another form of thinking. Many often say that travel experiences and observations can broaden one's horizons. However, to her, broadening their horizons isn't merely about visiting various attractions. It's about personally experiencing different cultures and lifestyles, leading to lesser egocentrism and more gentleness and understanding. This is, in fact, crucial training for becoming a mature adult. After all, we encounter various people and need to manage different relationships. In an era where global teams prevail, we must collaborate with colleagues and clients from diverse backgrounds. Everyone knows that empathy is essential during such times. However, it is often challenging to truly empathize with others, primarily if we mistakenly believe that our perspective is the sole truth. Immersing oneself in other cultures and having on-ground experiences and observations, according to Elva, is a great way to enhance empathy. For instance, during our travels, we might experience the intense heat of summer in Taiwan while another region is enduring winter. While Chinese culture treats the concept of ghosts with considerable caution and reverence, Halloween in the United States adopts a different approach. Taiwanese people consider it thoughtful to serve hot tea in restaurants, while Japan prefers to offer cold water to guests regardless of the cold. Elva noted that frequently navigating such diverse scenarios enables her to intuitively consider others' perspectives, attempting to understand their thoughts and reasons behind their words and actions. “Whether facing divergent opinions on social and political issues or encountering vastly different viewpoints and activities from colleagues at work, I would adopt this approach rather than immediately assuming others are wrong. This is the first step towards empathy.” Although deeply feeling travel's relaxation and transformative effects, she added at the end of the interview that what might be truly important is not whether one travels but whether we can find a suitable way to change our state in the face of an inevitably exhausting life. If the mere thought of embarking on a journey overwhelms you with stress, then this method won't allow you to enter a restful state, and there might be other options more suitable for you. How do we find them? She suggested, by showing her tablet, to try and create more special experiences within acceptable limits and feel which activities allow you to gain new energy or become peaceful after completion. “It can be on a small scale or very time-consuming. It could be as simple as taking a different route home after work, watching a movie you've never chosen, or staying overnight in a hotel near your house to create a short, utterly personal time. These have unexpectedly restful effects.” -- (This article is translated by the Digital Nomad editor group.)
December 9, 2023
Remote Work Socializing: 7 Ways to Never Be an Outsider Again
When I started working remotely, I was alone most of the time, whether working from home or traveling. Except for phone calls or video conferences, I hardly ever spoke to real people throughout the day. As a result, socializing in remote work became something I had to pay close attention to, otherwise, I easily got lonely. As remote work becomes more prevalent, I've also started noticing that more and more people are facing this issue. So, in this article, I will share with you some methods and platforms for remote workers to socialize. This way, even if you don't have colleagues around, you can still make new friends and expand your social network. What Are the Methods for Socializing in Remote Work? 1. Working at a Co-working Space A co-working space is usually a large building rented by a company or group and converted into a workspace suitable for various needs. It includes private offices for different numbers of people and open public spaces. Most of these spaces require a fee, but some offer trial work days for free. For me, a Co-working space has always been an easy place to meet people. You can bring your business cards, and you might just have the chance to meet some impressive individuals and find unexpected collaboration opportunities. To find out if there are any co-working space in your area, you can Google "Co-working Space + your location", or check out the following platforms: WeWork : Suitable for people in the USA or small startups of four or five people. The monthly rent isn't cheap, starting at around $300, but the facilities are luxurious and fully equipped, almost like a second home! Workfrom : One of my favorite websites, where you can select features like "open late" or "quiet". It also allows you to detect the nearest coffee shops or workspaces based on your location. Nomads list : In addition to searching for cafes and workspaces, this platform offers great online networking and chat features, as well as new arrival guidelines for settling in a new country. Meetup : Here, you can find a variety of free and paid events based on personal interests. However, it's not widely used in Taiwan yet. Eventbrite : Similar to Meetup, but with more paid events. It also sells tickets for theater shows and concerts. This platform is more about finding workshops, talks, and courses than social gatherings. 2. Arrange to Work Together in a Café You can find many groups on Facebook like "Taiwanese in the USA", "Taiwanese in Singapore", "Taiwanese Working in France". These groups are a great way to find friends when you are traveling and working and want someone to chat with. Just post in the group stating where you are and how long you'll be there. You might get a response, and then the two of you can quickly arrange to meet at a café to chat and work together. This is a method I really like. Since both parties have already initiated contact online, it's less awkward when meeting in person, and the pressure of making friends is somewhat reduced. 3. Initiate Casual Conversations with People Working in Cafés You can also think of it as a kind of approach. In the United States, people are accustomed to talking to strangers. Just by making small talk, you can quickly learn about each other's work, interests, where they live, etc., greatly increasing the chance of forming a deeper connection. It's even possible to arrange to hang out or work together later. For the shy Taiwanese, this might require a bit of boldness, but it's definitely a method worth trying. If you're unsure how to start, you can discreetly observe what the other person is doing on their computer, what they're holding, or simply take in the surrounding environment. These are all great starting points for quickly engaging in a conversation. 4. Make Friends in Your Field Through Online Groups If you're more interested in making work-related friends, it's best to connect with people in the same field. You can visit specialized professional groups like LinkedIn", "Women Who Code Taipei", "Graphic Designers of LA", "Photographers in Berlin" to find peers in your profession. These groups have already done a first level of filtering, leaving only those related to your work nature and professional field. They are great for finding potential collaborators or clients. Communication tends to be easier and more targeted with these people due to the similarity in field and work nature. 5. CouchSurfing CouchSurfing, literally meaning sleeping on someone's couch while traveling, is a concept often described more elegantly as "staying for a night". There are increasingly more platforms facilitating connections between hosts and travelers. By setting your preferences online, you can find local residents willing to let you stay with them. Most people registered on these platforms are also keen on meeting new friends. Unless your host is very busy and often out for work, you usually have plenty of opportunities to chat with them, share meals, or even visit nearby tourist spots together. This often leads to strong connections, and it's common to stay in touch after a CouchSurfing experience, as both parties have invested meaningful time in each other. 6. Stay in Hostels or Backpackers' Inns When you travel, if you choose not to do CouchSurfing, you will inevitably need to find a place to stay. In this case, affordable youth hostels or backpackers' inns are good choices. You won't be the only traveler there; you might meet many people from Taiwan or from around the world. Just like point three, take the initiative to strike up conversations with others, using the surroundings or what they're doing as conversation starters. This can easily open up connections between people. Even if you're not staying at such places, their lobbies, lounges, dining areas, or workspaces can also be great spots to facilitate chats. If you want to make friends, don't keep yourself locked up in your room. 7. Attend Offline Seminars or Workshops If you're looking to meet friends who enjoy learning, attending offline seminars is definitely the quickest way. Remember, many people stop learning after leaving school, so those who make time in their busy work and daily life to attend offline seminars or workshops likely have a strong desire for self-improvement. If it's a workshop, there might even be group activities, which automatically give you something to talk about with strangers. Working together to complete a task can also quickly warm up your relationship!" Remote Work Socializing Activities in Taiwan We have discussed 6 ways you can try remote socializing, but most are suitable for the USA or places outside Taiwan. If you're a remote worker who only stays in Taiwan, I have compiled 3 especially active methods in Taiwan where you can find many events for socializing. 1. ACCUPASS Accupass is a very famous event ticketing website in Taiwan, as far as I know. The events listed there are both free and paid, with prices varying depending on the scale of the event. From my own experience, there are many free or low-cost events that are rich in content. There's a wide variety of events available all over Taiwan. Accupass has a lot of offline seminars and online courses. If you love learning, prioritizing events here usually won't disappoint. The updates are quick, covering both networking and learning opportunities. (Click here to visit) 2. Facebook event The number of events on Facebook is also noteworthy. You can find all sorts of events there by setting filters for category, location, and time. This allows you to immediately list all the events you might be able to attend. However, a downside of Facebook events is that the information provided is often sparse. You might need to visit the official website or follow the links provided by the organizers for more detailed information and registration methods. From my observation, there are more volunteer activities on Facebook events, which could be a priority if you prefer volunteering. (Click here to visit) 3. Remote Taiwan This is the best remote workers' community in Taiwan that I've seen so far. The group frequently hosts related seminars, shares experiences of remote workers, and discusses the latest trends in remote work. You can interact a lot with everyone there and take the initiative to get to know others. As mentioned in point 4 above, this platform has already filtered through its members for you. It shouldn't be hard to find like-minded individuals who resonate with remote work for networking. The rest is up to how you engage in conversation. (Click here to visit ) Your Part in Remote Work Socializing Currently, my main method is still working in coffee shops. I've met many people in cafes, some of whom I had great conversations with but never saw again; and others with whom I only spoke for a few minutes, but we exchanged phone numbers and later found we clicked well through messaging. I believe whether or not someone becomes a friend requires the right timing, location, and people. While we can't control timing and location, I think we can at least take responsibility for half of the people aspect. This means we need to take the initiative to connect with others. The other half is out of our control, dependent on whether the other person reciprocates. The key in socializing is to relax and not be too purpose-driven, focusing mainly on "getting to know the other person." I believe there's a direct correlation between human happiness and healthy social interactions. Moderately interacting with others can contribute to your mental and physical well-being. Meeting people from all over the world, and having connections wherever you go, is one of the best aspects of working while traveling. I hope today's sharing has been helpful to you. -- This article is reprinted from：理想生活設計 (article) (This article is translated by the Digital Nomad editor group.)
December 5, 2023