In the ever-evolving world of business, the boundaries of conventional office spaces are being pushed to new limits. Entrepreneurs and executives are redefining work by seamlessly blending business with their passion for travel and exploration. Imagine running a thriving business while living on the road, embracing the freedom of an "Executive Nomad."

In June 2023, I made a drastic decision -to give up most of my belongings and adopt a minimalist lifestyle. I downsized all my personal belongings to fit in just two bags only and took a camper van journey around Australia while managing multiple businesses.

Now I live permanently on a working holiday to spread my message of LIVINGPASSIONATELY.

And no, I am not a blogger or a vlogger. I run several businesses including publishing, coaching, speaking and writing my own books along with teaching yoga and meditation.

In this article, I'll share my insights on how to build and lead a successful business even while on the go.

First, let’s define what a “nomad” or a “working holiday” lifestyle means: it’s about the freedom to be able to do what you want, when you want. The “nomadness” is not just about being in a van on the road but also about travelling to a destination you enjoy and having experiences you aspire to. That could be switching between a campervan, flights, Airbnb’s or even staying with friends and family in between.  

Build a System: The Cornerstone of Success

The first fundamental step to making this lifestyle work lies in creating a well-documented system. Start by breaking down tasks into manageable steps, each constituting a "key milestone." Document these processes and procedures meticulously, forming the foundation of your business's operations. Having a robust system ensures smooth workflow and seamless communication while on the road. Aside from minimizing problems resulting from miscommunications, the perpetrators of such systems are the cornerstone of the following steps to build a business that you can scale and manage while on the road. I spent years refining my systems and it made my road trip more enjoyable because I could make decisions on the go without risking the outcome of an impulse to “wing it”. Remember, luck favours the prepared.

Harness Automation and Outsourcing

In the modern business landscape, automation is not a luxury; it's a necessity. Embrace automation tools that streamline marketing, email communications, lead generation, appointment scheduling, and more. Think of it as a virtual team that works tirelessly while you focus on other critical aspects of your business. But remember, automation is most effective when your processes are well-defined, aligning with the documented system you've built.

Where automation can't tread, outsourcing takes the reins. Delegate tasks that require a human touch but don't necessarily demand your personal involvement. Look for dedicated individuals, preferably from regions with lower exchange rates to the dollar, to handle these tasks efficiently. This combination of automation and outsourcing enhances your productivity and allows you to focus on high-level strategies.

Embrace Strategic Decision-Making

As an Executive Nomad, it's vital to relinquish micromanagement tendencies. Establish a clear decision-making framework that empowers your team to make informed choices when you're not immediately accessible. This not only fosters trust but also prevents bottlenecks in critical processes. Embrace the freedom of knowing that your business can thrive even when you're not hands-on with every detail. I do my best to minimize my involvement in decisions that only I can solve, either a really big challenge or big opportunity, otherwise it's better on all fronts to empower the team to do what they do best.

Time Optimization: Balancing Automation and Personal Involvement

While automation and outsourcing handle the routine tasks, focus on activities that genuinely require your expertise and creativity. These include strategic planning, sealing significant deals, and addressing complex challenges. By devoting your energy to these high-impact areas, you'll ensure that your business continues to grow even as you explore new horizons. For me, I let automation do the initial leg work, then my team does the initial quality control to double check things are as per standards that I have set, then they only alert me to things that need my personal attention like discussed in the previous point.

Creating a Mobile-Friendly Workspace

A key aspect of being an Executive Nomad is ensuring you have a productive workspace. Whether it's a comfortable setup in your campervan, a co-working space, or a coffee shop, your workspace should facilitate focus and creativity. A reliable internet connection is non-negotiable, allowing you to stay connected with your team and clients around the world.

Crafting a Daily Plan and Sticking to It

Structure is your friend on this journey. Plan your days meticulously, allocating time blocks for different tasks. Having a clear agenda ensures you're making the most of your time, maximizing productivity, and striking a balance between work and exploration.

Embracing Routine for Freedom

In the midst of seeking adventure, I came to realize the profound wisdom in Verne Harnish's words: "Routine frees you." Building a routine doesn't stifle creativity; it liberates you to focus on what truly matters. Over the years, I've learned that routine isn't the enemy; it's the framework that enables me to manage diverse businesses while exploring the world.

Conclusion: Leading with Purpose and Passion

Becoming an Executive Nomad isn't just about running a business on the road; it's a lifestyle that blends purpose with passion. By building systems, embracing automation and outsourcing, and honing your decision-making skills, you can successfully navigate the complexities of business while on the go. Remember, it's not about escaping routine; it's about embracing the right routines that allow you to flourish as an entrepreneur, even as you wander the globe.

Most entrepreneurs start a business because they have big dreams and want to break free, only to find themselves even more stuck than when they had a job as they are the boss and the employee at the same time. I hope in this article I have given you not only tips on how to run a business on the go but also to utilize those tips in building your business in a way that reignites your passion for entrepreneurship.

Moustafa Hawmi