From the Corporate World to a Life of Freedom: Miriam’s Journey as a Digital Nomad and Expat

Miriam’s story is one of transformation, courage and self-discovery. From a fast-paced career in the Swiss fashion industry to teaching yoga and surfing in exotic locales, she has embraced a lifestyle that prioritizes connection, curiosity and inner happiness.

In this interview “From the Corporate World to a Life of Freedom: Miriam’s Journey as a Digital Nomad and Expat”, Miriam shares her path to becoming a digital nomad, the challenges she faced and the wisdom she’s gained along the way.

Hi Miriam, nice to meet you! Tell us a little bit about yourself, your life and whatled you to make this lifestyle choice!

I’ve been incredibly active and curious since I was a child. My mum nurtured my adventurous side by taking me to different places and activities almost every day and I couldn’t be more grateful for her support.

In my 20s, I worked in Switzerland in the fashion industry, pouring all my energy into the corporate world.While I achieved success in many ways, I never felt truly satisfied.

I believe true happiness comes from reconnecting with your inner child. After a major breakup, I began listening to my true self again.

I asked myself: What did I love to do? Where did I want to be? Realizing my job could be done remotely, I decided to take a break.

In 2019, I left my corporate position to become a freelance graphic designer and yoga teacher. Since then, I’ve spent months at a time in places where I can surf, teach yoga and connect with people who share a similar lifestyle.

Do you share this lifestyle with anyone?

This new chapter in my life has introduced me to so many amazing people.

With some of them, I’ve crossed paths multiple times around the world, sharing pieces of life—whether in a house or a van!

Can we call you an “expat”? Tell us more about what prompted you to make this major and drastic life change!

Yes, you can definitely call me an expat. I moved to Switzerland for work 10 years ago and have been a nomad for the last five. My curiosity makes it impossible for me to imagine staying “trapped” in the small town where I grew up.

Discovering that I could work without being tied to an office was the spark I needed to escape and embrace a nomadic life.

Once you resigned and decided to leave, where did you start?

After resigning, I planned to complete a yoga teacher training. Fortunately, the teacher I admired was hosting a program in Sri Lanka, a country I had fallen in love with after visiting a few months earlier.

I moved there for two months and it marked the start of a transformative journey.

Have there been any significant changes in your family as a result of this life choice?

At first, my family wasn’t happy with my decision to leave a stable job in Switzerland—it seemed reckless to them. But I had a clear plan, enough savings to maintain my independence, and a well-organized approach.

Over time, their perspective shifted completely, and now they’re no longer concerned about my lifestyle. In fact, I suspect some of them might even be a little envious!

How often do you return home and how do you feeleach time?

In the summer, I often return to Italy, where I grew up. As a traveler, having a place to call home is essential—a place to reset, reflect, and plan the next adventure.

Let’s talk about security instead: do you find muchdifference compared to Italy and Switzerland?

I consider myself lucky to have grown up in a small, secure Italian town. While I’ve lived in cities like Milan and London, I can confidently say that Swiss cities feel much safer and more protected.

Can you tell us a funny anecdote that happened to you during one of your travels?

Two years ago, I visited Nepal. Initially, I planned to stay for a few weeks, do some hiking in the Himalayas, and then move on to another destination.

But I ended up staying longer after getting involved in a few projects with my startup. I was determined to complete a trek to Annapurna Base Camp before December, as conditions get dangerously cold by then.

Pressed for time, I made the questionable decision to bring my laptop on the hike—a trek where every gram in your bag matters!

Let’s just say I set the bar high for what it means to be a digital nomad.

“I want to change my life”: what realizations have arisen within you after these years on the road? What is the difference from the Miriam who left in 2019 and decided to change her life, to the Miriam of 2024?

Since 2019, I’ve grown and changed in countless ways, constantly adjusting as I go. What stays constant is the sweet sensation of being in the right place at the right time.

I no longer make compromises—I’ve come to know myself deeply, and life continues to unfold with beautiful experiences and meaningful connections.

What advice would you like to give to a family or someone who would like to take a similar journeyand embark on this lifestyle?

For me, having enough funds to travel and maintaining full independence has been key. Working remotely is possible for anyone, but my advice is to never skimp on health insurance and always travel smart!

Thank you, Miriam!

Miriam’s journey reminds us that stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to a life filled with purpose and adventure.

Her story is a testament to the power of listening to your inner voice, pursuing your passions and creating a lifestyle that aligns with your values.

For those contemplating a similar leap, her advice is simple yet profound: plan wisely, stay adaptable and trust the process.

If you want to follow Miriam on social media in her extraordinary adventures, here is the link:

IG: @mirihana

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