1-on-1 with Wendy, a former KLM flight attendant turned full-time digital nomad

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Intro 

We believe that independent professionals are the pioneers of the changing world of work. That’s why every week we go in-depth with one of our favorites and pick up some lessons about what it takes to be a digital nomad. 

This week we spoke to Wendy de Boer (45) from the Netherlands who left behind her beloved job as a flight attendant, sold almost all of her possessions and fully embraced the nomadic lifestyle. She is now travelling ‘solo’ with her Land Cruiser with the mission of telling the inspiring stories of lesser known but highly talented people around the world through photography and documentaries.

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For how long have you been travelling? How did it start?

I was a flight attendant for almost 20 years so travelling was part of my job and I’ve been to many places. During stopovers, I would meet these extremely talented photographers and I felt an urge to tell their unique stories. 

Last year, I decided to fully commit to this project, so I sold almost all my belongings, packed the Land Cruiser  and hit the road. It wasn’t an easy decision but it felt like the right thing to do. I have no regrets so far. 

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Most memorable nomad experience 

Visiting the refugees camp in Iran. This experience completely changed my perspective on what truly matters in life. 

3 most important items you travel with 

As I sold almost all my possessions, the most important things I own now are my Land Cruiser, my laptop and my photography gear.  I still feel that I have more things than the essentials I actually need and use. Minimalism is a journey,  I’ve learned that life can be so much more meaningful when you own less things. 

Where do you do your best work

In my van, sitting or standing. It’s a small space and can feel like a pilot cockpit but everything is within reach. 

Most challenging part of being a nomad

I sometimes struggle with being too absorbed in my work as I am really passionate about what I do. It’s good to know yourself and notice when it’s time to take a step back and recharge. 

Travel hacks

I usually camp in my van and only recently booked an Airbnb, that can save a lot of resources and time spent searching for places.  

Favorite routines 

Working while standing from time to time. Outdoor yoga to manage stress.    

Getting social

Instagram can be a good way to connect with other creatives and discover hidden talents.  Other encounters happen naturally. As I travel solo with my van people are always curious and want to know my story. 

Defining success 

For me, success means creative achievement and doing something that has a positive impact in the world. 

Lessons learned as a digital nomad

Don’t listen to naysayers. In matters of important and potentially risky choices, people will project their fears on your decision and that can derail you from your path.  Most importantly,  do the thing that you always wanted to do, everything tends to work out just fine in the end. For every challenge you might face there is a guardian angel just around the corner. 

Future plans 

Organizing a crowdfunding campaign for my photography project, Shoot with a local.  My final goal is to reach Tibet to shoot with some amazing local photographers.