Five Reasons Why You Should Teach English Instead of Becoming a Digital Nomad
Newbie travelers are interested in remote work; however, teaching English at a foreign school might be a better way of life abroad
A number of would-be travelers have their eyes set on remote work or the laptop lifestyle, where they believe their lives will be an ongoing vacation or at the very least, they will escape the routine of life in corporate America.
Beyond the hype, experienced travelers, including myself, have spoken up about the realities of being a digital nomad and how it isn’t as glamorous as it appears in magazine articles or presented on social media.
I was an English teacher before I stumbled into the digital nomad lifestyle a decade ago. I thought the grass was greener in the remote work world, and what I found out was that I actually enjoyed being in the classroom or being an English teacher because it made me an effective traveler.
Here’s why…
#1 You Have a Support System
When you’re new to a country, culture shock will overwhelm you. Not enough is discussed about cultural norms in foreign countries or adapting to foreign cultures, especially for new travelers.
Most schools have a liaison who will help you with housing, and probably has worked with other foreign teachers. You’ll have assistance getting settled, physically and mentally.
Beyond the foreign staff, there are your colleagues. Experienced English teachers are usually very friendly and like to help new travelers get integrated into the local culture, and quite often, they will also provide you with advice from a foreigner’s perspective and give you the nuts and bolts of the country you’re in.
#2 You Learn From Your Students
I’m not a fan of teaching children, although it pays better, but when you work with adults, you often get to understand what is in your student’s hearts. You learn about their views on politics, their folk heroes, and things you’re not going to learn in any books.
In addition, adult students provide great travel related insights into the country you’re living in or neighboring countries. When I was in Beijing, several of my students were instrumental in helping me decide to move to Taiwan because they spoke highly of the culture, weather and people. Others spoke favorably on different parts of China and also Hong Kong.
In other words, the best travel tips about the country you’re visiting or living in come from the people who know it best.
#3 You’re Engaging With People
When I left corporate America and had ambitions of traveling, my main goal was to escape the 9to5 lifestyle where I sat in front of my computer screen for hours on end. This is also the goal of many would be remote workers.
Ironically, many digital nomads have come to the realization that while they are in a foreign country, their work schedule requires that they sit alone, in front of a computer screen for long hours, trying to meet deadlines. As a result, many find themselves depressed and struggle to make genuine friendships.
When you teach, you’re engaging with people, helping them learn aspects of your language and, in many instances, your culture. Quite often, when you’re teaching adults, you’re able to create friendly relationships with your students, fellow co-teachers, and foreign staff, which makes your travel experience more worthwhile.
#4 Your Students Will Look Out For You
When I was taking English teaching training courses, my fellow classmates had the goal of helping people. I admit, this wasn’t my concern at firstbecause all I wanted to do was travel, but as I matured as a teacher, I took delight in helping my students learn aspects of the language and building their confidence.
In return, depending on the foreign country you’re teaching in, most English teachers are respected members of the community, and people will look out for you and your well-being.
#5 The Digital Nomad Lifestyle is Overrated
I’ve done it, and I’m currently doing it now — the digital nomad lifestyle is highly overrated. Experienced nomads on all major social platforms are speaking out about the realities of life on the road. If you don’t believe me, please read subs on Reddit, articles on this platform, and videos on social media.
No matter what, you’re always going to have difficulties while living abroad. It is part of the journey; however, when you’re first starting out in the new world, teaching English for a year or so can help you get adjusted to traveling.