Four Strategies For Digital Nomads To Beat Procrastination

• Remote work’s flexibility can lead to increased procrastination, given the lack of traditional office structures and the presence of more distractions in non-conventional workspaces.
• Enhanced productivity in remote work can be achieved by establishing structured routines, practicing effective time management techniques, and utilizing digital accountability tools.
• To prevent the negative impacts of procrastination on work and personal life, it is crucial for digital nomads and remote workers to establish clear boundaries and maintain a healthy work-life separation.

The freedom to work from anywhere — from cozy cafes in Mexico to serene beaches in Bali — has redefined what it means to have a “workplace.” 

However, this flexibility comes with its own set of challenges, notably the issue of procrastination.

“You have ambition and drive, yet you find yourself stalling or postponing action on a work project. You’re behind on a deadline and instead of planting yourself in front of the screen, you watch yourself rearrange furniture, do laundry or vacuum the house. Procrastination is a self-defeating behavior most of us do at some point, and when you live and work under the same roof, it’s easier to get sidetracked,” according to Forbes. 

Digital nomadism and remote work have surged in prevalence due to advancements in technology and, more recently, as a response to the global pandemic. The lifestyle of a digital nomad allows individuals to work from virtually any location, provided they have a reliable internet connection. 

Digital nomads enjoy the enviable perk of setting their own schedules and choosing their work environment, making autonomy a significant draw of the lifestyle. 

According to a study by MBO Partners, 70% of digital nomads work 40 hours or less per week, and a significant portion report high satisfaction with their income and lifestyle. But this lifestyle can make it hard to get much-needed work done. 

The liberty to craft one’s own schedule and work environment is a double-edged sword — a flexible work style can enhance productivity and job satisfaction, but it also brings the risk of procrastination due to a lack of structured work environments and the presence of more distractions.

Procrastination among remote workers isn’t just about laziness or poor time management; it’s a complex psychological behavior that involves delaying tasks despite knowing the negative consequences. 

The very benefits of remote work — no fixed office location, no direct oversight, flexible work hours — can also be its pitfalls. Without the external structure of a traditional office, remote workers might find themselves putting off tasks, leading to stress and decreased productivity.

How to overcome procrastination

1.Establish routines 

To overcome procrastination, it’s crucial for remote workers to establish routines and boundaries. A regular schedule, mimicking aspects of a traditional office environment, such as set work hours and a dedicated workspace, can foster discipline. 

2.Practice time management techniques 

Time management techniques like the Pomodoro Technique can also be particularly effective for digital nomads and remote workers. It involves working diligently for a set period, usually 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. This method capitalizes on the brain’s cycle of focus and can improve attention span and reduce the likelihood of procrastination.

3.Use accountability tools

Another approach is the implementation of accountability mechanisms. Collaboration tools and project management software (such as Trello or Asana) can track progress and deadlines, providing clear goals and motivations. The software company Buffer reported that using such tools has helped maintain a high level of productivity among its fully remote team. Additionally, establishing a remote work community or finding a digital coworking partner can create a sense of accountability and mimic the social support structures of physical offices.

4.Establish a clear boundary between life and work 

Long-term strategies must also consider the psychological aspects of work. 

Establishing a clear separation between work and personal life is essential, given that blurred lines can lead to stress and decreased productivity. This could mean setting strict cut-off times for work-related communications and using different devices for work and leisure when possible.

The digital nomad lifestyle as well and working remotely requires careful personal management to overcome the pitfalls of procrastination. By establishing structured routines, utilizing time management techniques, implementing digital tools for accountability, and maintaining a work-life balance, remote workers can enhance productivity. 

As more individuals and organizations embrace remote work, these strategies become increasingly vital for the sustainability of this modern approach to work.