Digital Nomad Diaries: Journey to a Dream Life in Croatia and Beyond
1. What inspired you to embark on a digital nomad lifestyle, and how did you initially make the transition?
I always wanted the option to work online so I could travel and work from anywhere! I'm an avid traveller and have been living outside of my home country (USA) for almost 10 years, with family and friends spread out all over the world which I like to be able to visit. I was tired of trying to squeeze quality time to just 2-weeks holiday time per year, asking for leave, and finally in July 2019, I had to QUIT my role just so I could travel. During that trip, I made the decision to start my own online business. I wasn't sure what it would look like yet or what services I'd offer but I made up my mind and was going to make it happen.
2. As a social media strategist and content creator, what are the key strategies you use to stay productive and creative while traveling?
I'm lucky that everywhere I go, my phone comes with me! So if I find a quick bit of inspiration, I can pull out my phone, hit record and create content on the spot.
I've found that I prefer slow travel and being in one place for at least 1 week. This helps to maintain some routine and still means I have time to work and enjoy the place I am visiting.
3. Being based in Croatia, how has this location influenced your work and lifestyle?
Living in Croatia has positively benefited both my work and my lifestyle. I live a more slow-paced lifestyle and really live in the present and LIVE more than work. There is so much beautiful nature that inspires you to be outside rather than behind your laptop. The coastal region of Croatia also does not subscribe to "hustle culture" so just by being around people with that mentality, influences you to relax more too.
4. Can you share how you balance the aspects of life, travel, business, and inspiration in your daily routine?
I built a business that would help me live my dream life where I could travel whenever I wanted - which inspires others that it's possible too. I share a lot of the behind the scenes of what it took/what it takes on a daily basis to maintain being able to live the lifestyle I do. I think this is realistic for others to see what's involved and that they are inspired and know it's achievable for them too.
5. What role do your ventures, @thecontentcheerleader and @thecontenttraveller, play in your professional life?
**Currently in the process of merging my brands into only @thecontenttraveller estimated launch February 2024.
My business @thecontenttraveller is where I offer Social Media Strategy, Content Planning, Coaching sessions, Content creation services and Collaborations. I work with small businesses and personal brands all over the world to utilise the power of social media. I also work with aspiring digital nomads who want to become Social Media Managers, this is a recent service I've launched which I am enjoying so much helping others chase their dreams!
Besides my social media services I offer through @thecontenttraveller, I also have a TikTok account sharing all aspect of @mylifeincroatia.
6. How do you approach creating content that resonates with your audience, and what tips can you offer to aspiring content creators?
First of all, you have to know who your audience is because "if you're marketing to everyone, you're effectively marketing to NO ONE"
Generally, your ideal client is where you were 3 years ago so try to speak to them where they're at.
If I could share some words of wisdom, remember that your content is for your audience. To educate them, to inspire them.. but it's for THEM. So it's not always about "me, me, me" you want to make them feel INCLUDED in the content, like you're speaking directly to them. People relate to authentic content.
7. What challenges have you faced in your journey, and how have you overcome them?
Since moving to Croatia and experiencing some big life changes, I didn't realise the impact they would have in my professional life. As you go through personal shifts and grow, your business has to adapt and grow with you. It's been a bit of trial and error, a rebrand, slightly changing service offerings and tweaking my ideal audience but I'm really content with how things are going now (both personally and professionally!) I think it's important to always stay focused on what your dream life looks like and working towards that - that's the best motivation for me.
8. How do you stay updated and continue to evolve in the ever-changing field of social media and content creation?
I consume mindfully. When I'm consuming content, it's with the intention of research - to see what people are doing, to see what's been overdone and to find inspiration. I try not to consume too much (which is easy to fall into a scroll hole) and I try not to consume more than I create. After a bit of research, I create my content and find a way to make it my own.
9. For those inspired by your lifestyle and considering a similar path, what advice would you give them?
Why not try?! You have nothing to lose. I truly don't think I'm "special", I believe everyone can learn an online skill (such as social media marketing or content creation) and be able to become a digital nomad, IF they are willing to believe in themselves, take risks, take action and do the work.
10. Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you are particularly excited about?
For anyone interested in moving to Croatia on a Digital Nomad Visa or another immigration method - I am now working with @expatincroatia as their Social Media Manager. I'm excited to combine two things I love: social media content creation + Croatia, to be able to help others move here too!
For More information:
https://www.instagram.com/niavkonno/
https://www.instagram.com/thecontenttraveller/
https://www.tiktok.com/@mylifeincroatia?_t=8j0JYwUp048&_r=1
contact : niavkonno@gmail.com
