Do’s and Don’ts of Working from Home

Maybe you’ve reached your goal and you can finally work from home, or maybe you’re just inching closer to reaching that goal. Whatever your case, you need to know that working from home is a lot harder than you would think.

 
You will be battling distractions and a lack of structure. You will also be constantly battling time, which seems to go three times faster when you work from home.

 
So, here are some Dos and Dont’s to help you if and when you are working from home.

 
Do: Buy a laptop.

If you don’t already have a laptop, get one. The freedom it will give you for when and where you can work is a must.

 
Do: Set a Schedule

This is especially important if you have a family at home or anything else that might distract you.

 
Have a discussion with anyone else who lives with you and let them know when you scheduled to work. Get them to agree that they won’t disturb you while you are working. Post your hours of work on the refrigerator or in another area where everyone will see it.

 
Be sure to stick to your schedule just the same as you would if you had a boss to answer to.

 
Do: Leave the house to work.

If you have too many distractions, get out of the house and work at the library or at a cybercafe. All you need is a couple bucks for internet connection and snacks. That’s it.

 
Also, though the idea of working from home is great, there might be times when you feel like you are homebound and you just need to get out.

 
So whenever you get the opportunity, change your venue. It will keep things fresh and make you happier.

 
Don’t: Build a home office unless you can really afford it.

If you have the extra cash to build a home office then go for it. But don’t borrow any money to do it. While a home office is great and may be a goal of yours, don’t borrow money to get it done. You’ll just be adding debt at a time when you need to be building your income.

 
Instead just set up your office in a spare bedroom, or find any space in your house where it’s semi-private and livable.

 
Don’t: Watch television while working

While you are working, avoid the television at all costs.

 
Don’t: Work in the middle of chaos.

It’s a nice idea to work in the same room where your kids are playing or where your family/friends are hanging out. But it just won’t work, mainly because you won’t work.

 
Be sure to always separate yourself from everyone else in the house. If you can’t do that then leave the house.

 
So there are three very important Dos and Dont’s for you to follow. Follow these and you are well on your way to achieving success while you work from home.

 
Tips from Scot Standke

Originally posted 2012-10-07 19:00:24.