Shlomo Kubitshuk is not your ordinary tech professional. While many spend their days in cubicles under the harsh glow of fluorescent lights, Shlomo has turned the world into his office. From the bustling streets of Lisbon to the tranquil beaches of Bali, he embodies the spirit of a digital nomad—those who blend work with continuous travel to lead a life of adventure and productivity.
Early Beginnings
Shlomo’s journey into the nomadic lifestyle began with a desire for freedom. “The standard nine-to-five was never for me. I wanted to set my own schedule and see the world,” Shlomo explains. His break from the conventional came when he landed a remote job that offered him the liberty to work from anywhere. The experience of working with a view of the ocean solidified his path: “The first time I set up my laptop on a balcony overlooking the ocean, I knew I’d found my path.”
Challenges Along the Way
Embracing a lifestyle that strays from the norm is not without its challenges. For Shlomo, one of the biggest hurdles has been managing time zones. Working with teams back in the States often means unusual hours. “Time zones can be brutal. I’ve pulled my fair share of midnight meetings,” he says. To combat this, Shlomo uses tools like World Time Buddy to keep his schedule in check and ensure he meets all his deadlines.
Another challenge is maintaining productivity without the structure of a traditional office. Shlomo has developed a disciplined routine that starts with coffee and exercise, followed by diving into work. “Discipline and routines are everything. You need to manage your own time and tasks,” he points out. Finding the right work environment is also crucial. Shlomo often alternates between coworking spaces and quiet cafes, depending on his needs.
Favorite Places to Work
Among the many places Shlomo has worked, Lisbon, Portugal, stands out as a favorite. “Lisbon is hard to beat. The coffee’s amazing, the internet is fast, and there’s a huge community of remote workers,” he shares. But his preferences aren’t limited to bustling cities. He also appreciates the focus he can find in quieter spots like Chiang Mai, Thailand, which offers a slower pace and a community that supports deep work.
Advice for Aspiring Nomads
For those considering the digital nomad life, Shlomo suggests starting small. “Try working remotely from a different city before you sell everything and hit the road. It’s important to understand what it’s like to balance work with exploring a new place.” Budgeting is also crucial, as unexpected costs can pile up quickly.
Despite the occasional longing for a permanent home base, Shlomo finds the trade-offs worthwhile. “Sometimes, I miss having my own kitchen or a familiar neighborhood. But I’ve realized that home can be many things—a community, a city, or even just a favorite coffee shop.”
The Future of Remote Work
Shlomo believes that remote work is here to stay, but the way we think about it will continue to evolve. “Companies are starting to realize that productivity isn’t about showing up to an office—it’s about results,” he states. He anticipates more hybrid models emerging, where people have the option to work from anywhere but still meet up in person occasionally.
Lessons Learned
The most valuable lesson Shlomo has learned on the road is adaptability. “No matter how well you plan, things won’t always go the way you expect. You have to learn to roll with it,” he advises. From missed flights to internet outages, each challenge is a learning opportunity.
Getting Started
For those new to remote work, Shlomo recommends getting the right technology setup first. “Invest in a reliable laptop, noise-canceling headphones, and a solid VPN,” he advises. Testing the waters by working from a local cafe or library can also be a good first step to see if you can manage the distractions.
Shlomo Kubitshuk’s story is not just about travel and work; it’s a testament to the pursuit of a balanced life where freedom and responsibility go hand in hand. As more people explore remote work, his experiences and insights offer valuable lessons on how to navigate this dynamic lifestyle successfully.