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THE BEST JOB IN THE WORLD IS THE ONE YOU DON'T HAVE TO GO TO!

That common misconception among the general, working public leads to much glorification of the idea of working from home.

Whether it is a home-based business run by an entrepreneur or an employee that telecommutes full or part time, working out of your house is both rewarding and challenging.

GUIDELINES

Family discussions are important to establish a mutual understanding of what "working from home" means. Determine ahead of time which, if any, additional household responsibilities will be assumed. Agree on evening work hours versus family and together time. Neighbors and relatives also need to be informed that someone who is home during the day is not necessarily available because they are actually working.

SET YOUR SCHEDULE
Consistently plan your week and your month. Whether you use a paper or electronic planner or calendar does not matter. Writing out your schedule does matter.

Figure out what time you will clock in; schedule your lunch break. If self employed, calculate and block out the hours to spend working IN the business (day-to-day tasks to keep the business going) as well as those needed to work ON the business (marketing, planning and promotion to keep the business growing).

Allow yourself some flexibility for the unexpected, but remember that making a schedule for yourself and sticking to it is extremely important for productivity and a sense of accomplishment.

KEEP IT SEPARATE
Just as it would be if you worked elsewhere, your home office should be a dedicated, separate place; or at least its own space. A detached guest house, converted garage or basement are ideal. A room with a door allows for a quiet environment to conduct phone calls, research and promotes creativity. Keep it neat and organized; make it inviting so you will want to go to work each day.

The door also allows you to "come home" from the office. Turn the phone ringer off so it does not distract you through the walls. Resist the temptation to jump back in to work related items just because it is convenient. If you have a great idea or remember an appointment, write it down and take it to work the next day.
If you do not have a spare room, create your workspace with portable office crates or closable containers. During the day, spread out wherever you work best. At the end of the day, pack up the files, papers, books, etc. and put them away. It is difficult to feel that you are done with work for the day when there are piles of

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