Hey Jordan! 

Thanks for being a featured guest on the Remote Worker! So, tell us a bit about yourself and your business:

My name is Jordan Simons and I’ve been traveling the world while working remotely or the past 7 years. I focus on YouTube and social media marketing, having built up a YouTube following of over 220,000 subscribers.

I’ve always focused on being able to travel continuously with nothing but a laptop and a camera. 

What’s your business mission or your personal ‘why’ for remote working?

Honestly, travel has always been a passion of mine. I remember going on the traditional backpacker gap year when I was 19 (over 10 years ago now) and wishing that it wouldn’t end, but having no idea how to keep it going. It seemed impossible at the time to be able to work online and keep the travel going - now that’s completely changed. 

I wouldn’t say I have a particular ‘why’ for remote working, other than it just seems like the best option for me. If I wanted to, I could decide to settle and live anywhere and still be drawing an online income. Or if I want to move to a new country, I can do that too. The main draw for me is the flexibility of being able to choose. 

How long have you been working remotely? And what inspired you to go remote?

For over 7 years, since quitting my job and selling my things back in August 2014. 

What’s one thing you wish you’d known before going remote and/or thinking of slow travelling? (Or for anyone currently remote working)?

Take your time and make sure to also give yourself a holiday!

Some people get caught in the trap of filling their time with work, even when you’re in a new country. Give yourself time off too - and that includes filming, creating content, blogs etc. 

The main reason we wanted to travel in the first place was to travel - take a few weeks off and explore the area you’re in. 

What’s one key lesson you’ve learned in business while on the road?

I’d say there are a few lessons I’ve learned. 

1 - Always have a safety cushion. Companies often don’t pay for at least 30 days after invoice, so don’t rely on your next payment to keep yourself afloat. Have a 2-3 month cushion and expect not to get paid for that work you did. Then at least there will be no nasty surprises & you won’t have to cut your remote work trip short!

2 - Do things for people without expecting anything in return. Networks are key to any business, but I’ve found that especially in remote working. Everyone had to start out at some point, so if you can help them in the early days then why shouldn’t you? You needed that help at some point too. 

3 - Keep your discipline. There are times when you want to just explore more, become a vagabond or party for a week straight - but if you’ve still got work to do, get it done first. Don’t lose your clients, partners and income streams just because you had too much fun for a few weeks. A simple lesson but a painful one to learn. 

And finally, where can we find you online?

YouTube: /thelifeofjord

Instagram: @thelifeofjord