The industrial age had its markers: a 9-5 job, a desk, and perhaps a corner office. Fast forward to today, where the internet has blurred geographical lines and the rise of the knowledge worker beckons. The idea of success in this modern landscape is morphing, and the world is reeling from it. Chris Cerra, Founder at RemoteBase, offers an incisive perspective:
It starts with understanding the past. The industrial revolution had factories with punch-in and punch-out systems. Being within a commutable distance was non-negotiable. Fast forward, and technology has handed us the tools to work from practically anywhere. But the cultural acceptance? That took its sweet time. So, success, which was once tethered to physical presence, now had to be uncoupled from that very idea.
If you’re chasing after the digital nomad lifestyle or simply trying to grasp what success means when your work isn’t tied to a location, heed Cerra’s insights.
1. Redefining the Workspace: A desk isn’t a prerequisite. Whether it’s the beaches of Bali or the quiet corner of your home, your workspace is what you make of it. Success isn’t about where you work but how you work. Ensure you’re effective, connected, and producing results, no matter your zip code.
2. Challenge Cultural Notions: Old habits die hard, and so do established cultural norms. While remote work tools existed, it took a while for the culture to accept this shift. It’s time to challenge these ingrained notions and define success on your own terms. Not in the hours spent in an office, but in the value, you add and the quality of your output.
3. Embrace Versatility: Today’s world demands versatility. One can argue it’s the new marker of success. Being able to work from different places, adapt to varying cultures, and ensure consistent productivity is a testament to one’s capability.
4. The Value of Exploration: Cerra, originally from Manchester, understands the allure of newer pastures. Success in this age isn’t just about professional achievements. It’s also about understanding oneself better. Exploration—whether geographical or of different industries and roles—provides a richer understanding of what brings joy and fulfillment.
5. Money isn’t the Sole Metric: Success used to be synonymous with hefty paychecks. Now? It’s about earning in strong currencies, perhaps, but spending where it gives more value. The allure of getting more for less isn’t just smart economics; it’s a marker of someone who understands the nuances of the global market and living intelligently.
6. Happiness is Personal: The temptation to equate a change in geography with happiness is strong. But success is about understanding what makes you happy right where you are. It’s about finding your core values and then taking them with you wherever you go. Don’t expect a change in longitude and latitude to fix inherent discontent.
In our bid to redefine success in this age of digital nomadism, let’s not be swayed by age-old markers or societal pressures. It’s time to be brutally honest about what we want, and then carve our path accordingly. As you navigate this evolving landscape, remember this nugget from Cerra: lifestyle choices aren’t forever. Adapt, evolve, and remember that success is as fluid as our ever-changing world.