Nicola Doherty is a Freedom Coach and founder of Nicola Doherty Coaching. Based in the life coaching industry, she helps women around the world escape the 9–5 grind and create a life of purpose, passion, and freedom — all while living her own digital nomad lifestyle.
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How It All Started
After graduating university in 2005, Nicola spent one year working a 9–5 office job to save money for travel. That one year was enough. She knew the routine wasn’t for her and made a promise to never go back — and she’s kept it ever since.
For over a decade, Nicola worked as a freelance researcher while traveling the world. The freedom was there, but the passion was missing. “I was fulfilling someone else’s dreams and not my own.” She wanted to connect more deeply with others, particularly women, and help them create meaningful change. That’s when she became a certified coach.
A Day in the Life
Nicola typically works four days a week. Her mornings start with journaling, intention-setting, and visualization. Her work includes marketing, client coaching, and planning group programs — all conducted online.
But it’s not all work: Nicola makes self-care a daily priority. She breaks up her days with walks, swims, yoga, reading in a hammock, enjoying great food, and exploring whatever location she’s based in.
What She Loves Most
“I love helping women understand why they aren’t living the life they dream of, then helping them change that,” Nicola shares. Watching clients transform their lives is the best part of her work. And as a coach who works fully online, she loves being able to set her own schedule, travel the world, and live completely on her own terms.
Biggest Challenges
Nicola genuinely enjoys every part of her work. As for the digital nomad lifestyle, she admits she misses friends and family while abroad — but staying connected is easier than ever thanks to technology. “The pros massively outweigh the cons.”
Average Income
Nicola earns around £5,000 per month (approximately $7,000 USD), which comes from coaching sessions, programs, and services within her business.
Qualifications
Nicola holds a degree and a doctorate in Psychology, which help support her coaching. However, she emphasizes that you don’t need a formal degree to become a coach. What’s essential is life experience, the right coaching certification, and alignment with your purpose.
Advice to Aspiring Freelancers
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Get clear on your passions
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Choose a certification that resonates with you
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Prioritize your own pleasure and self-care to best support others
Tips for Remote Work and Travel
Nicola proudly identifies as a “slowmad” — someone who travels slowly while working remotely. “It’s all about balance,” she explains. “Traveling too fast drains my energy. Slow travel helps me stay high-vibe and present for my clients.”
Handling Criticism Nicola says she’s been lucky to have supportive friends and family. That said, she’s heard people say she’s “lucky” to live this way. “None of this is luck,” she clarifies. “It’s privilege, yes — but it’s also hard work, determination, and a strong vision.”
Favorite Quote “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” — Mary Oliver
Travel Tip “Travel light!” Nicola shares. “Dragging a heavy backpack gets draining. It reminds me how little I need, and how physical possessions aren’t what matter most. Traveling light frees my energy for connection, living in the moment, and exploration.”
