From Lockdown to Liberation: The Digital Nomad Journey of Mike Swigunski

MIKE SWIGUNSKI
Founder Of Global Career | #1 Best Selling Author

The Digital Nomad Journey of Mike Swigunski

One Entrepreneur Turned an Unexpected Stay into a Thriving Global Career

In 2020, the world went into lockdown. Mike Swigunski found himself in an unexpected situation. He was stranded 6,000 miles away from home in the heart of Tbilisi, Georgia. What started as a temporary visit turned into a life-changing decision to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle.

Swigunski had planned to stay in Georgia for just 30 days. Yet, the borders closed in March due to the Covid-19 pandemic. He had no choice but to extend his stay. He did not view it as a setback. Instead, he quickly fell in love with Tbilisi’s old-world charm. He appreciated its warm hospitality and relaxed culture. Now, at 33, he lives and works from Georgia, enjoying “a higher quality of life for a fraction of the cost.”

A Life Redefined

Swigunski’s journey to global entrepreneurship began years before the pandemic. After graduating from the University of Missouri in 2011, he faced a pivotal decision. He had to choose between pursuing a traditional corporate career or chasing his passion for travel. The untimely loss of his mother to breast cancer just before graduation became a defining moment for him.

“I was absolutely devastated,” he recalls. “I was 22 years old, and I was confused on which path to follow … but I knew my mother would have wanted me to follow my dreams.”

He chose to embark on a journey. This journey took him across over 100 countries. He worked in various roles, from a travel writer in Korea to a marketing manager in New Zealand. His experiences led him to create Global Career. This is an online platform that offers job boards, coaching, and workshops for aspiring digital nomads.

“These services are helping other people by inspiring them to create a different journey or start their own global careers,” he says. “I want to help other people become digital nomads in a faster path.”

The Financial Perks of Nomadic Life

Swigunski’s annual income ranges from $250,000 to $275,000. Thanks to Georgia’s favorable tax policies, he retains more of his earnings than he would in the U.S.

“Running multiple businesses from Georgia is definitely a lot easier than if I was based in the U.S. and it mainly just comes down to the cost,” he explains. “If I were trying to replicate my same infrastructure in the U.S., it would probably be around ten times more expensive.”

His biggest monthly expenses are rent and utilities, which total around $696. This allows him to live comfortably in a two-bedroom apartment with a private Italian garden.

“As soon as I saw this place, I fell in love,” he says.

The Digital Nomad Lifestyle

Each day in Tbilisi looks different for Swigunski. Mornings start with coffee and reading in his garden, followed by meditation and a workout before logging onto work. While he often works from home, he sometimes visits coffee shops or co-working spaces for a change of scenery.

One of the biggest differences he’s noticed between life in the U.S. and Georgia is the cultural attitude toward work.

“A lot of places don’t even open until 10 a.m., and in general, Georgians are working to live, not living to work,” he says.

There’s a saying in Georgia: “A guest is a gift from God.” Swigunski has found this to be true, noting how welcoming and hospitable the locals have been.

Is the Digital Nomad Life for Everyone?

I Live Better In Tbilisi Than I Did In The US – Here’s How Much It Costs | Relocated

While the lifestyle offers freedom, it’s not without its challenges. Swigunski acknowledges that living in a developing country comes with occasional inconveniences, like periodic electricity or water outages. He also experiences homesickness for family and friends in the U.S.

“It’s not for everyone,” he admits. “There’s going to be a lot of different variables that you won’t be able to replicate from your old life of living in the U.S.”

Yet, despite these challenges, he remains content with his decision.

“Would I ever live in the U.S. again? I don’t want to speak in absolutes, I love America,” he says. “But as of now, I just enjoy my life overseas a lot more than if I were going to live in the U.S.”

Final Thoughts

Swigunski’s story proves that unexpected circumstances can lead to incredible opportunities. His journey highlights the freedom and financial benefits of the digital nomad lifestyle, but it’s not for everyone. For those willing to adapt, it offers a chance to redefine success on their own terms.

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