History and background: the need to change society
Change and the search for new ways of living are not recent phenomena; their history is intrinsically tied to the evolution of society. Since the dawn of civilization, humans have shown a natural tendency to explore new territories, settling in different regions in search of resources, security, and opportunity. However, advances in technology and globalization have made the need for society to constantly change more evident (LUCILLA, 2023).
Spinks (2015) notes that in the pre-digital era, migration was often motivated by economic factors, such as finding work in industrialized areas, or political and social issues, such as conflict and persecution. states. Migration was a response to the need for survival and improved living conditions.
With the advent of information technology and high-speed internet, change and mobility needs have evolved. In modern society, physical locations are becoming less important and virtual workplaces are emerging. In this scenario, digital nomads have emerged as a response to an increasingly connected and globalized society.
The need for change became motivated by factors such as the pursuit of flexibility, a higher quality of life, the opportunity to explore the world, and personal fulfillment. Advances in technology are revolutionizing the world of work and lifestyle by allowing people to hold jobs, start businesses, and collaborate from anywhere in the world.
The history and background of digital nomads is rooted in the search for social change, improvement, and opportunity, driven by increased connectivity and the ability to transcend geographic and cultural barriers. This evolution reflects society’s constant adaptation to ongoing technological and cultural transformations (MOLZ, 2012).
The real impetus for the emergence of digital nomads has been brought about by technological advances in recent decades. The proliferation of high-speed internet, the proliferation of mobile devices such as laptops and smartphones, and the development of online collaboration tools have revolutionized the way people work and connect (LUCILLA, 2023).
In particular, high-speed internet played a key role. The ability to access information and collaborate in real time from almost anywhere in the world has enabled people to disconnect from traditional physical office locations. This may be related to the need for “security” in Maslow’s pyramid, as constant connectivity provides financial security and access to professional opportunities, regardless of physical location.
Types of digital nomads
Digital nomads are not a homogeneous group. They come in all shapes and sizes, with different purposes and lifestyles. It’s important to recognize this diversity within the digital nomad community. Common types of digital nomads include full-time remote workers, nomadic entrepreneurs, lifestyle nomads, freelancers and the self-employed.
Full-time remote workers: These people have traditional jobs but have the flexibility to work remotely. They typically maintain a consistent work schedule and may travel in their free time. This relates to the need for “social relationships” in Maslow’s pyramid, as it allows you to maintain interpersonal relationships while traveling.
Nomadic Entrepreneur: Many digital nomads are entrepreneurs who have started their own online businesses. You can create digital products, offer online services, or develop an affiliate-based business. This relates to the need for “personal realization” in Maslow’s pyramid, which seeks self-actualization through entrepreneurship.
Nomadic lifestyle: These digital nomads choose a lifestyle of constant travel and often fund it through various activities such as blogging, social media, photography, and consulting. This can be seen as a search for “personal accomplishment” and “self-esteem” in Maslow’s pyramid of self-actualization and social approval.
Freelancers and self-employed people: Freelancers and self-employed people have maximum flexibility and can choose projects according to their wishes. They can leverage remote work platforms to find opportunities around the world. This is also linked to the quest for ‘personal accomplishment’ and ‘respect’ in Maslow’s pyramid, where they seek autonomy, recognition and personal satisfaction in their work.
The influence of Maslow’s pyramid can be observed in many aspects of digital nomads’ needs, from the pursuit of security and social connection to personal fulfillment and social recognition. This psychological framework helps us understand why so many people choose this flexible, digitally enabled lifestyle in modern society (MASLOW, 1943).
