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Working from home is now possible thanks to technology and the internet, but it requires marketable talent, self-discipline, and the right tools. It’s not ideal for those who require social interaction, but it’s a good choice for part-time work. To succeed, invest in a landline phone, computer, and high-speed internet, set up a workspace, and establish rules and guidelines. Take breaks, keep track of billing and expenses, and remember to enjoy personal time.
The idea of working at home was once limited to artisans and artists; those who could make a product, write, paint or sculpt. It’s not like that anymore. Thanks to advanced technology and the ever growing presence of the internet, home based jobs now exist in abundance. If you’re considering working at home, however, there are a number of factors that should be taken into consideration. You must have marketable talent, self-discipline, the right tools, and the ability to function without close supervision or feedback.
First, working at home is not a good choice for those who want or require a high degree of social interaction. In most cases you will be working alone and must avoid the temptation to put off until tomorrow what needs to be done today. It’s a good choice for those looking for a part-time job or a little extra income. It’s true that many people choose to work at home as a full-time career, but taking this course requires extreme dedication, the ability to multi-task, and a strong desire for personal freedom.
If you have the attitude to work successfully at home, then it would be wise to invest in a landline phone, an up-to-date computer and a high-speed internet connection. You should also set up a specific workspace in your home and keep it clear of clutter and non-work related items. Working at home is best if you continue to function as if you had a regular nine-to-five job. Now you put on the hats of employer, supervisor and employee and you have to set some rules and guidelines.
Some people find it helpful to start work at the same time each day, while others are able to alter their hours as circumstances dictate. It’s also helpful to set up a daily list of tasks to do before the end of the working day. You should take periodic breaks, just as you would in a traditional job. Take a lunch hour and make sure you leave the house a few times a day, even if it’s just for 10 or 15 minutes. This will prevent burnout and help greatly in maintaining focus on the tasks at hand.
Working at home should be approached much like working in an office. If you are telecommuting for a large company or paying a salary, you will have predefined jobs and a relatively low level of stress. If you’re a freelancer working from home, the opposite is true. If you fall into the latter category, you should be constantly on the lookout for new opportunities, as it’s not unusual for the home business freelancer to serve as an independent contractor for a half dozen or more companies.
This means that you will need to keep track of billing, invoices and expenses. It can often feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day, but it’s vital that you make the time to clean the house, walk the dog, spend time with family, and get enough sleep. Remember that you took this leap to improve your life. When the working day is done, simply close your office door and take part in the activities you enjoy.
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