Fish(er) Tales

If you are planning on using your home as your base of business operations you may uncover some conflicts with other family members. Frankly it’s never been a problem for me, but I hear horror stories from many other home based workers. Distractions ruin your concentration and will interfere with your work pursuits. Use these tips to avoid trouble:
Get into a routine. You can’t run your business occasionally. You must set a schedule of some kind. Though it need not be precise, it should be functional. My schedule changes from week to week based on changing circumstances. I also recognize my limitations and personal preferences and know what I must do to complete each project. If you’re not self-motivated you might need some nudging to get going. Do what must be done to make sure you start working toward your goals. Whether you’re in this part-time or full-time, this is an important key.
Explain your situation. Spouses, significant others, and especially children need to understand what you are doing. Show them what you do, what you plan to do, and share your goals with them. Let them understand your schedule so they recognize when you are working and when you are available to them.
Get some space. A crucial factor in this tightrope walk between work and family is to set up a specific work space. A spare bedroom or basement home office will help you avoid household distractions. Plus you can close the door when the day is over and leave your work behind. Walking past your work can be too much of a temptation when you’re supposed to be relaxing. Get a separate telephone line just for your business and let it ring only in the office. You’ll avoid lots of embarrassment when your two year old hangs up on an important client.
Child care may be a good solution. If you’re choosing to work from home so that you can spend more time with your family, you may encounter difficulty. One solution may be to combine some child care with your home routine. Even a sitter for a few hours each day can free you for uninterrupted business tasks.
Make sure you include your family in your plans. They are an integral part of your success machine. Follow these simple guidelines, use some good common sense, and you’ll reduce the possible frustrations of combining family, fun, and your important work.

I’ve been working from my home-office for nearly 20 years, so these tips work.