Working from Home - Top 5 Mistakes People Make

Working from home has several benefits and can be one of the most rewarding experiences for not only yourself, but for your family. However, if you are thinking about establishing a home office, it is important to understand what this would ultimately mean to you. Taking your personality and working ethic into account, it is imperative to do your research and understand what it will mean for you and your family if you do decide to forgo the traditional working environment for the two second commute.

Establishing a home business for yourself may mean you are your own boss, but being the boss can have its difficulties. If you are contemplating working from home, it is important to understand and avoid the five common mistakes people make:

Separation Anxiety

If you work from home, it may be difficult to separate your home life from your work life. You are accessible to family members all day every day, so it can be easy for you to be taken advantage of. Set up your office in an area of your home that is separated from the rest of the family. Whether it is in a spare bedroom or in the basement, it is important to disconnect your work from your home.

Hidden Flexibility

You may have the ability to work flexible hours, but it is important not to take this for granted. It is also important not to allow others in your life take your availability for granted. Yes, working from home allows you to take time off when your child falls ill or you plan a last minute vacation. However, it is important to establish business hours for yourself and stick to them. If friends or family ask you to take time off during your set hours, you should be firm with your working schedule. Respect your work and others will follow suit.

Home is too Comfortable

Essentially erasing your commute to the office can be a positive experience. You may be able to work in your pyjamas, but it is still essential to step outside and get away from your working environment. Change into clothes that make you feel like a professional and go outside for a walk at least once a day. It is also important not to allow the television or Internet take your focus away from your work.

Isolation

As mentioned above, it is important to step outside of your home at least once a day. When you work alone in your home, you may risk isolating yourself from the rest of the world. Because of this, you should make a point of meeting with friends and past colleagues for lunch at least twice a month. Escaping the confines of your home will give you a sense of being a part of the working world, without the headaches of commuting, office politics and disgruntled bosses.

Working from home can be a satisfying experience, however before you decide to set up your home office, it is important to recognize and avoid potential mistakes in order to achieve the success you desire and deserve.