Working From Home : How do you do it?

When I meet people for the first time and explain what I do, one question I am frequently asked is: How do you work from home? Followed quickly by, "I never could do it! I don't have the discipline." Working from home offers great flexibility, but it does come with great responsibility to you, your clients and your bottom line. You must stay focused on work and not get distracted by the 1001 other household management projects you need to complete! Some days, I do it better than others! However, here are some of things that may help!

• Have a designated space - this is not always easy; depending on your home's layout and family's needs; however do the best you can at creating a work zone. For me, it works great to have a door that closes on the space. Partly because, at the end of the day I can close the door and forget about work; but just as importantly, during the day I can close the door and close out the house. It is important that,regardless of the size, shape or positioning of your office, you need to make sure it is set up in a way the conducive to you being productive

• Get an office phone. Using an office phone will allow you to turn off or put away your cell phone; and you will not be interrupted by non-work related calls. You may feel like this is a huge expense, but there are ways to do it with little or no cost. Consider a Google Voice number, or contact your cell phone carrier for a "home phone" option. Verizon Wireless offers a program that, for less than $30 a month, allow you to use a traditional land line phone with a cell service. Short of a second phone line, consider using different ringers on your phone. One ringer for friends/family, other for business contacts. 

• Similarly, have a personal email address. If you are getting all your personal emails in your business email box, that can be distracting to your day. With free email accounts offered everywhere, sign up for one and leave the personal email to after hours!

• Establish office hours. Just like a schedule for work, set hours when you will be working - not saying you have to only work during those times; but these are your "regular hours" Attempt to schedule all personal business outside of those times. On the same note; schedule real vacation times. One of the biggest hindrances of working from home is that people feel that they never get a break! Schedule a vacation - or stay-cation - and turn off the office phone, office email and relax!
  

• Get Dressed! I know; one of the advantages of working from home is the ability to work in your PJ's; I have even done it myself. However, going through a typical morning routine and getting "dressed for work" can help transition you into work mode. No need for corporate wear; but avoid your pj's.

Do you work from home? What are your ideas to keep yourself from getting pulled away by non-work related duties? Email me at info@taskit2me.com and share!