by Anne Graham

Created on: June 16, 2008   Last Updated: June 17, 2008

Whether you are a work at home mother, or a professional with telecommuting privileges, there are several steps in making your home office a successful environment. Here are some tips on creating a home office you can work in.

First, you should separate your work space from the rest of your house. Although we are living in the age of multi-tasking, you do not want the distraction of televisions, family members, or pets interrupting you as you work. A quiet place will allow you to focus your attention on the task at hand. This will actually save you time by giving you the opportunity to concentrate. This is also critical for jobs such as at home customer service representatives or call centers. You can actually lose your job if you have distracting noises interfering while you are trying to talk to a customer.

Second, remember that you may be spending several hours at a time in your office(depending on the type of work you are doing). With this in mind, you will want to make it as comfortable as possible. A comfortable chair with good cushion and back support will come in handy while sitting at your desk. Also, wrist support can be crucial for long hours on the computer. You can find items, such as mouse pads, that come with a wrist rest.

Next, you will want to make sure your office is properly equipped. You need a computer, Internet connection, and printer. A separate phone line or digital phone will come in handy for most occupations. Other office supplies may include, paper, pens, envelopes, postage, etc. This will depend on the type work you do. It will be best to make a list of items you will need and have them on hand for when they are needed.

Being organized is very important to a successful office. Filing cabinets and folders will help. Label these so that you can easily find what you need- when you need it! You do not want to waste time searching for misplaced items. When your office is organized, it helps you stay focused on your work instead of looking around thinking of what you need to do in the office.

Dress for success. Staying in your pajamas all day- could make you lazy! So, as tempting as it may be, get up and get dressed like you were leaving the house for an outside job. One thing you can do to be more comfortable is to leave your house shoes on or go barefoot.

Finally, working from home should be enjoyable. Create a happy space. Hang bright curtains or paint the walls a bright color. Light a candle, hang a picture of a loved one or a favorite poem, and enjoy the flexibility of working at home.

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