Member Articles

Many of us know that “working from home” is a popular concept today. Also, there are many photos showing women working from home with their children next to them. The pictures show women and kids looking happy and carefree. That makes me sick.

Working from home is stressful and requires self-discipline and adjustments. Allow me to clear up some of the myths and offer you facts with solutions.

Myth #1: You don’t need childcare. You can be with your children all the time.

Solution: Hire childcare and think of it as an investment, not an expense. By paying someone to watch the kids you are taking the time to invest in yourself, because you are growing professionally. It is also better if your child goes to a daycare so there are less distractions at home.

Myth #2: With a flexible schedule, you can do whatever you want, whenever you want -- no 9-to-5 restrictions.

Solution: While you don’t have restrictions set upon you by a boss, you must set a schedule for yourself to accomplish results, save yourself and your family. You need to be self disciplined to stick to a schedule and avoid the easy distractions such as TV and phone calls. Get out your planner/calendar and set a schedule for your work. Example: Tuesday morning, manage and set a business budget, Wednesday afternoon, follow up with current clients and prospects.

Myth #3: You'll save time and money on commuting, and always being available for your family will make you happy.

Solution: Family and friends will translate your working from home as you not working. You will have to explain that you have goals and a schedule and request that they respect that. You will have to make personal adjustments. You will have to learn to say no to yourself and be very strict with yourself. It’s like there will be that other voice that will be disciplining you at all times. Say no to distractions. Commit to your goals and your schedule.

Feel free to share your thoughts, ideas about working from home. Does it work for you? How did you adjust?