Carlos Grider is a former Marine turned world traveler and digital nomad. Born and raised in California, he joined the Marines in 2001 and served as an Intelligence Specialist for 6 years. After leaving the military, he worked as a cultural advisor and analyst before transitioning into the business world as a management consultant. In 2017, Carlos packed a backpack and left everything to travel world full time. Along the way, Carlos fell into the digital nomad lifestyle by writing about travel and adventure on his blog A Brother Abroad to fund his travels while sharing with others the infinite possibilities adventurous travel holds for those willing to take the leap.

10 Things to Know About The Digital Nomad Life

1. "Mini retirements" can be a stepping stone and a stepping stone to the digital nomad life

2. Plan 2 years out - the longer you plan the easier it will be.

3. During your two years planning, amass as many resources as you can - money, relationships, marketable skills.

4. Don't completely abandon your life at once - take stock of it and roll the positive aspects and resources into your next bit of life.

5. In the time leading up to departure, examine yourself often in the time leading up to - your desires, passions, dislikes, and unresolved issues. Becoming familiar with these will help you craft a path unique to what you need from the world to be fulfilled.

6. Becoming a digital nomad or digital expat is very possible at any age.

7. You will find new family on the road. There is an extreme sense of community among travelers and digital nomads once you find your niche and digital nomad "hives" around the world make the lifestyle much easier.

8. Long term travel, and being expat, is possible on nearly any budget.

9. The successful digital nomads concurrently pursue a practical aim/profession while also pursuing a passion, and at some point (usually the 1 year to 1.5 year mark) the two merge to create a sustainable lifestyle financially and emotionally/spiritually.

10. Being a digital nomad doesn't have to be forever. It can be an experiment or tool, and returning home after a stint isn't a failure.