Tired of the 9-5 grind? Imagine quitting your job, moving to a beautiful country, and earning $7,000 a month working just 20 hours a week! That’s exactly what Kaitlin did when she left LA for Lisbon. Her story proves that a life of freedom and financial independence is possible, but what sacrifices did it take?
Kaitlin Wichmann’s journey from the demanding 9-5 corporate grind in Los Angeles to a liberated freelance existence in Lisbon, Portugal, exemplifies a growing global trend towards prioritizing work-life balance and personal fulfillment over traditional career paths. Her radical shift, which now sees her working a mere 20 hours a week while earning a substantial $7,000 monthly, showcases the tangible benefits of embracing a digital nomad lifestyle.
For many, the allure of a marketing job in sunny Santa Monica with ocean views seems like a dream. However, for Wichmann, this seemingly idyllic setup quickly became a suffocating routine. The daily monotony, the fixed desk, and the constant feeling of being tethered to a system ignited a profound restlessness within her, prompting a critical re-evaluation of what true happiness and success meant beyond societal expectations.
This deep-seated dissatisfaction fueled her desire for change. Instead of making an impulsive leap, Wichmann strategically began building a client base as a freelance digital marketer while still employed. This methodical approach allowed her to establish a financial safety net and a viable alternative income stream, providing the crucial security needed to eventually sever ties with her full-time job.
Portugal emerged as the perfect destination for her new chapter. A prior visit to Madeira had left a lasting impression, and Lisbon offered a compelling combination of vibrant culture, excellent weather, accessible beaches, and a thriving international community, making it an ideal hub for an aspiring expat life. The country’s welcoming environment and specific visa options for remote workers solidified her choice.
Navigating the practicalities of relocation, Wichmann diligently secured her D7 visa, designed for individuals with passive income or remote work. This involved fulfilling requirements such as depositing €10,000 into a Portuguese bank, registering for tax purposes, and securing a rental agreement, which initially granted her a four-month settling period before progressing to a two-year residency permit.
Despite the immense benefits, the transition presented its own set of challenges, particularly the language barrier. Committed to full immersion, Wichmann proactively enrolled in university language courses, followed by private lessons, significantly enhancing her Portuguese proficiency and confidence in her new home. Her meticulously managed finances, with monthly expenses around $1,296 for rent and utilities, $500 for food, and $116 for transport, demonstrate a disciplined approach to financial independence.
The contrast between her life in LA and Lisbon is profound. Where her existence in California was largely dictated by work, her current reality in Portugal revolves around her life, with work seamlessly integrated rather than dominating. This transformation underscores a profound shift in priorities, fostering a sense of peace and contentment she had long sought.
Wichmann intends to establish a long-term future in Portugal, potentially purchasing a home, and aims to use her experience to inspire others. Her story serves as a powerful testament that a non-traditional work model is not only achievable but can also lead to an incredibly rich and fulfilling existence, encouraging individuals to pursue their version of life to the fullest with careful planning and courage.
