Work From Home = Paradise? Yeah right!

by sal64
72 replies
Hey folks,

Whilst the whole work-from-home concept sounds cool, I have found that it's not so easy... so much so that I am considering a small office again.

Noise, distractions, temptations, ability to separate work time from down time...

Somewhere along the journey the lines get blurred.

My wife is a classic example. She was sold on the whole WAH whilst you spend time with the kids. What a joke... she's gone back to work.

And what about the financial stress and lack of support because you don't have a real job??

Anyway, just wondering is it just me of have you also found it challening and not as clear cut as it's made out to be?

Sal

PS: Feel free to add anything that isn't in the poll.
#home #paradise #work #yeah
  • Profile picture of the author Bill_Z
    Hey Sal - Yup I have some troubles too. But because I split my time between a few different locations I haven't really gotten a chance to go the small office route. I would like to be able to go to one when I want/need to though.
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    • Profile picture of the author Bill Farnham
      I've done the "I hate my house, I'm getting a real office" dance several times over the past few decades.

      Here's one thing I learned...if you try to split your resources between TWO separate places you'll go crazy.

      You'll be at the office and reach around to grab something only to realize it's at your home office and vice-versa.

      You need to be fully committed to one of the locations. Choose one location and keep all your office stuff there.

      Yes, you can try to be in both places at the same time. Working on the internet even allows you to work from the beach...In your dreams.

      Casual work from a hotel room or conference is one thing, but making the move to a full time office requires you commit to that space.

      ~Bill
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      • Profile picture of the author sal64
        This is a very good point.

        I found that I had to move all my stuff into the office, including some furniture and books and filing cabinets etc.

        Admittedly, the social aspect wasn't that great because it's much the same as going to a party... as you try and explain what you do, their eyes roll.

        Even now, I have my main pc in my office and a lep top as well, and I find it annoying.

        I also find it difficult to work on a plane and when on vacation.

        I'll post here and browse on my laptop, but when it comes to hard core work... it's back to the office.



        Originally Posted by Bill Farnham View Post

        I've done the "I hate my house, I'm getting a real office" dance several times over the past few decades.

        Here's one thing I learned...if you try to split your resources between TWO separate places you'll go crazy.

        You'll be at the office and reach around to grab something only to realize it's at your home office and vice-versa.

        You need to be fully committed to one of the locations. Choose one location and keep all your office stuff there.

        Yes, you can try to be in both places at the same time. Working on the internet even allows you to work from the beach...In your dreams.

        Casual work from a hotel room or conference is one thing, but making the move to a full time office requires you commit to that space.

        ~Bill
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  • Profile picture of the author wenzel777
    I still currently work within an office environment, but will be transitioning to a work-from-home setting shortly. However, if it doesn't cut too much into your $, I'd recommend checking out some of those shared office space rentals. Seems to be extremely popular right now. There are some in the Denver, CO area that start at $300 a month. If that's what it takes to be productive, and to feel like you can really "get to work," then I'd suggest checking it out. Plus, it also offers a great opportunity to work with individuals in other creative fields. Nothing wrong with networking. And, if there are some creative sectors that fit in with your business, you might even get lucky & be able to trade/find services which can benefit you and your shared office workers.

    Also, I know you're not asking for some advice, but i'll give a bit more anyway. I've found that eliminating those distractions can be difficult, but if you wake up, shower & dress like you're going to work, (the standard dress shirt & pants), it might be just the trick to give you a little more motivation.
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  • Profile picture of the author sal64
    Yeah, serviced office is the way to go. I had one before, then our new home had a dedicated office which is cool.
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  • Profile picture of the author ProScribe
    I think creating routines is very important, because you don't have the same external motivators you have in an office.

    Planning what I want to achieve the night before, waking up at the same time, and having a set amount of work or time that I need to get through all help me to improve my productivity

    That said working at home definitly has its challenges
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  • Profile picture of the author Goatboy
    Originally Posted by sal64 View Post

    Hey folks,


    And what about the financial stress and lack of support because you don't have a real job??

    Anyway, just wondering is it just me of have you also found it challening and not as clear cut as it's made out to be?

    Sal

    PS: Feel free to add anything that isn't in the poll.
    There are a number of people with real jobs who are in great financial stress as companies have laid off workers, cut back on hours, or renegotiated contracts.

    I have had an office at home for my offline work since 1992. It is challenging at times, lonely at others, and the day-to-day chores of being home sometimes swallows up a lot of my time. You can compensate somewhat by shifting working hours so that the bulk of the work is done during periods when you know you won't be disturbed. I also have an answering machine that is on 24/7 that I use to screen all phone calls.

    Working at home is something that I enjoy like I never enjoyed working in an office. That said, it is not for everyone. Being your own boss is difficult, working in an environment where family members around you are relaxing and playing is even more difficult. Trying to do those 2 things plus take care of the home is a real handful.
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    • Profile picture of the author sal64
      Just quickly...

      1) family playing is no big deal because I love what I do, and try and split my time. I work during business hours and sometimes late at night when connecting with outsourcers.

      2) Yes it can be lonely and that comes with the territory of working at home. Sadly, all your friends are too busy at work to chat. WF and skype are my best friends lol.

      3) Discipline is something hardly mentioned, but it is so important.

      Sal

      Originally Posted by Goatboy View Post

      There are a number of people with real jobs who are in great financial stress as companies have laid off workers, cut back on hours, or renegotiated contracts.

      I have had an office at home for my offline work since 1992. It is challenging at times, lonely at others, and the day-to-day chores of being home sometimes swallows up a lot of my time. You can compensate somewhat by shifting working hours so that the bulk of the work is done during periods when you know you won't be disturbed. I also have an answering machine that is on 24/7 that I use to screen all phone calls.

      Working at home is something that I enjoy like I never enjoyed working in an office. That said, it is not for everyone. Being your own boss is difficult, working in an environment where family members around you are relaxing and playing is even more difficult. Trying to do those 2 things plus take care of the home is a real handful.
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      • Profile picture of the author tsdrew
        I agree it is hard to work from home and it's not easy it's a good idea if you have to work from home because is to find an empty room and turn into into an office so your family and friends know that when your in that room your working.

        You should also let your family and friends know that even though you are at home that doesn't mean your not doing anything your working hard at home.

        Finally people when working at home will either work too little hours or too many hours and some people may start start to work at uncomfortable hours such as midnight or 2am in the morning

        I suggest you create some form of timetable of when you are going to start and finish work at home and stick to it.
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        • Profile picture of the author sal64
          Originally Posted by travlinguy View Post

          Hey sal...

          All of the choices in your poll are negative. How about one that says, I love working at home, it's ideal.
          How about reading the question? Last time I checked, loving WAH isn't challenge.

          Originally Posted by mhdeaton View Post

          Here's what I do and it works well - First of all I'm lazy and come 2 or 3pm I like to call it a day do something with the kids 'and or' be at a game of one of the kids etc... Plus I'm in the gym every day at 1pm - So in order to make a fortune and be lazy and be available to my family I get up at 5am work for 6-7 hours and Im done!

          I'm done by 12 noon every day !! (And if I ever need to (RARE) I can put in a few more hours here and there)

          I can be real productive and a lazy A@@ like this - its awesome - YES 5am hurts sometimes, but I get so much done in that time its like having 2 days in 1 every day!

          M
          Whatever floats your boat. I'm a night owl and my brain doesn't crank up until at least 11am.

          Originally Posted by onlinets3557 View Post

          I agree it is hard to work from home and it's not easy it's a good idea if you have to work from home because is to find an empty room and turn into into an office so your family and friends know that when your in that room your working.

          You should also let your family and friends know that even though you are at home that doesn't mean your not doing anything your working hard at home.

          Finally people when working at home will either work too little hours or too many hours and some people may start start to work at uncomfortable hours such as midnight or 2am in the morning

          I suggest you create some form of timetable of when you are going to start and finish work at home and stick to it.
          Getting the respect you deserve from family is a challenge, especially at the start when the income is low.

          Although you have set yourself mentally for the journey ahead, sadly your partner may not have the same clarity as you... which can lead to some anxiety on their part.

          Sal
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  • Profile picture of the author travlinguy
    Hey sal...

    All of the choices in your poll are negative. How about one that says, I love working at home, it's ideal.
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  • Profile picture of the author ArwenTaylor
    Mostly I miss talking to and being around other people. There are coworking centers where you can basically rent a desk and work on your own projects. However, there are other people around to talk to and shared resources like printers, fax machines, etc. I'm looking for one in my area.
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  • Profile picture of the author mhdeaton
    Here's what I do and it works well - First of all I'm lazy and come 2 or 3pm I like to call it a day do something with the kids 'and or' be at a game of one of the kids etc... Plus I'm in the gym every day at 1pm - So in order to make a fortune and be lazy and be available to my family I get up at 5am work for 6-7 hours and Im done!

    I'm done by 12 noon every day !! (And if I ever need to (RARE) I can put in a few more hours here and there)

    I can be real productive and a lazy A@@ like this - its awesome - YES 5am hurts sometimes, but I get so much done in that time its like having 2 days in 1 every day!

    M
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  • Profile picture of the author CDarklock
    The inability of others to understand "Work From Home" is not the same as "Home From Work."
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    • Profile picture of the author RobHiness
      Originally Posted by CDarklock View Post

      The inability of others to understand "Work From Home" is not the same as "Home From Work."
      More epic wisdom! I agree!

      Thing is, working from home is not easy at all. Takes a lot of hard work, and dedication.

      If you lack a solid work ethic, motivation, and dedication. Then this aint' the industry for you!
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  • Profile picture of the author ButterflyN
    I love working from home. It's more comfortable
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  • Profile picture of the author ButterflyN
    I do miss having a routine though.
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  • Profile picture of the author Tricerra
    I recently moved back home. Having worked in my own office, a home office and someone else's office, I infinitely prefer my home office. However, I do find myself working a lot more hours. One client currently requires more than 8 hours a day and so I spend a lot of the normal off time trying to keep others clients afloat.

    Were it not for the contract with the one client I would be extremely happy. But the one contract pays the bills plus while the rest of my business is allowed to grow. It is like trading one devil for another but the security of a strong client makes it worth it.

    I no longer travel or eat out. I am home when my wife appears and when emergencies arise I am able to take care of them. Plus the dogs all love me being home.

    Work is work and you have to plan your time. Time management makes all the difference.

    David
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  • Profile picture of the author theking2
    Even though I work from home, I still make sure I have a daily routine every day..gym, early lunch, work online etc...I love it and I love staying on task with this routine. It is also great to know that I am my own boss so whenever I want to break my own routine I can
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  • Profile picture of the author art72
    Sal,

    Might I suggest another option "All Thee Above"

    Although the "Too many distractions" option is definitely an issue here. Especially, with 3 teenagers, a wife, and a 1/2 dozen cats... arrrgghhhh! -"There's no escape!"

    While I am pretty good at 'blocking out' my surroundings, I am looking forward to the day I can "move-up" to a dedicated home office. I'm sure a log cabin in the mountains for an occasional writing sabbatical wouldn't hurt my feelings either.

    All the Best,

    Art
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    • Profile picture of the author davidjames42973
      I get so much stuff done working from home. When I do get bored and cannot focus I will grab my laptop and work at Starbucks or a place like that.

      My place is extremely quiet and since it's only my wife and I, we don't have too many distractions.
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  • Profile picture of the author chrome
    It took me a solid year before I was happy and efficient working from home. I've been full time from home now since the year 2000.

    In my opinion the biggest drawback is the lack of social activity with others from day to day. It's easy to become a bit of a hermit and work way more then you would if you traveled to your office. It's just way to convenient to work non-stop while you're home.
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  • Profile picture of the author Ayush Sharma
    Its distracting to work at home.. you never take it very seriously.. and you dont feel proffessional.. i am just waiting till something picks up for me and i am gonna rent or buy a small office..
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  • Profile picture of the author John Romaine
    Ive been working from home now for 4 years.

    My thoughts on it are varied, but I do have to say, the isolation is a killer. And with that, comes other habits that I seem to have adopted. Such as working in my undies until late in the afternoon, not shaving for days on end, and working ridiculous hours that some days l see maybe 2 hours of sunlight.

    On the other hand, the traffic update on the news is a reminder of just how good I've got it. That and of course the absense of stress.

    I think eventually I'll move into a small office, and hopefully hire a team of people.
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  • Profile picture of the author Social Media Ava
    I worked from home for approximately 18 months because I HAD to...even though it had been a long time dream. I was laid off from my job. I learned some things in the process.

    It takes a massive amount of self discipline to "be your own boss". A number of things fit in to this discipline such as consistency and routine.

    While working from home is still my dream, I'll be seeking ways to stay out of the house next time by renting some office space. Because...

    - Going to an office and having a routine is huge.
    - There really are too many distractions at home unless you have an office space that isolated from both your comfort zone AND family.
    - The stigma of "if you're not leaving the house, you're not really working".
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  • Profile picture of the author Fazal Mayar
    I think you need an office because you are going to work but you are at home, this will give you some psychologically reminder. I find that i waste way too much time at home which is a big problem.
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    • Profile picture of the author Bruce Myron
      I've been working from home since 1986, so I can't really remember anything else. I do have a couple observations, though.

      First, I'm an introvert and don't have a big need to be around people. I'm not saying I'm antisocial, but there are many people that really need that social interaction and eventually go a little crazy without it. Never bothered me, but I do get out to clients a few times a week.

      I always felt that I could supply my own routine and it would be much more efficient - I think there are too many interruptions in an office! At home I can turn off my phone for a couple hours and really crank out some work!

      One of the main things that has helped me successfully work at home was having several sales jobs in the past. I do contract programming and I, when in sales, I got used to thinking a month ahead. I always know how much income I have in the pipeline for invoicing that will then turn into cash next month. Being at or over my goal for next month lets me know that I can take some time off, if I want.

      Sales also taught me to plan and I have an Excel spreadsheet that keeps me organized. If something gets put off, I just bump it down the sheet, but I never delete it until it gets done. Better than worrying if I have remembered everything.

      As far as I'm concerned working from home is the only way to go!

      Bruce
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  • Profile picture of the author art72
    As many have suggested, I too find it difficult to stop working. Too many times I'll set a time limit to call it a day - like midnight or 1-ish, and awaken to the realization it's 6:30am and the sun's coming out.

    I had a hard time choosing, but lately, I have been entertaining the idea of trying out some places (i.e. park, lakeside, beach, etc...) to find new inspirations for writing.
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  • Profile picture of the author Leanne King
    I agree working from home can be difficult. Construction work next door (means videos need to be done late at night), barking dogs, easy to procastinate and do the housework before starting work and then of course....the office is always there!
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  • Profile picture of the author AmandaT
    I love working at home and wouldn't have it any other way! I don't really have a routine, but I actually don't mind that. I go with the flow. I play with my kids when they want to play and work whenever I'm not doing something else. I do work more than I ever did at a regular job, but that is just because I enjoy my work so much!

    Honestly, I wasn't the most social person before I went into IM so that doesn't really bother me. Besides, I do have Skype and WF if I really feel the need to talk to someone.

    As for the office thing... I actually work from the couch! I know it seems odd, but I like being in the middle of the house where I can see what is going on around me with my family. I love being able to work while the kids sit up on the couch with me watching a movie. It makes me feel like I'm not missing anything. I have a small table with my laptop and a small file cabinet in the living room and that is like my office. I do have a desktop, I just barely use it.
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  • Profile picture of the author wanzulfikri
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      • Profile picture of the author sal64
        lol... edited for correctness and truth as it applied to my wife's experiences...


        Originally Posted by JMB Marketing Group View Post


        Dear MS (real name withheld),

        YOU gave me a once in a lifetime opportunity. Something that I’ll never forget!

        You made me realize, even though I thought that I wanted to be my own boss and make a ton of money whilst spending quality time with my kids... was NOT reality!

        What I realized from this experience was what I NEEDED was time away from my brats in order to keep my sanity and to be SURROUNDED by other adults where I can have a normal conversation and not have to pick up after them all the time!

        This is NOT something that can be told or taught; just something that one needs to experience in order to really map their life out!

        For this MS, and the opportunity you gave ME, I can’t thank you enough for helping me to see the light (after wanting this for MORE than 5 years), that I HAD IT ALL and much more, but didn’t realize it at until after my kids both contracted gastro at the same time, pood on the sofa and vomited on my keyboard.

        So, with that said ... being a paid employee is not so bad after all! THANK YOU!

        Sincerely,

        Mrs Sal 64
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          • Profile picture of the author CDarklock
            Originally Posted by JMB Marketing Group View Post

            Sorry, but I don't appreciate you dissecting my response for YOUR personal pleasure!
            You're missing something.

            Sal has edited your post to tell the story of his own wife.

            He's saying what amounts to "my wife has a very similar story."
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            "The Golden Town is the Golden Town no longer. They have sold their pillars for brass and their temples for money, they have made coins out of their golden doors. It is become a dark town full of trouble, there is no ease in its streets, beauty has left it and the old songs are gone." - Lord Dunsany, The Messengers
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              • Profile picture of the author Tom B
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                Originally Posted by JMB Marketing Group View Post

                YAH, he piggied on MY real life and personal emotions.

                However, he did not write his wife's story ... he INTERJECTED in what I wrote with MY own heart and soul ... which he's made a mockery of!

                Therefore, his comments are not funny, nor am I impressed!

                The Used & Battered Warrior!

                JMB
                Maybe you should stop posting until you develop a thicker skin and drop the victim act.

                The Tough Love Warrior
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              • Profile picture of the author JCorp
                Ever since I became an entrepreneur I've always had a goal to be in an actual office. I ended up working from home for about 5 years because I had young kids and wanted to be around more often, but just as someone else said above, I'd work in my undies (which isn't a bad thing), wake up late, work 10 hours straight, take a 20 minute break and be at it again for another 4-6 hours and rarely eat anything.

                We now have an outside office and productivity has increased. We made sure that our office wasn't too far from our home so we're close by. I definitely recommend that if you can afford it and you're looking to do big things (not that you can't do big things from home) then get or make it a goal to get an outside office...

                *Recommendation not for everyone
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          • Profile picture of the author sal64
            Sorry but there was no disrespect or mockery intended. If you read it I signed it on behalf of my wife... and by the way, that was her experience.

            It was a bit of humour which you obviously don't appreciate.


            Originally Posted by JMB Marketing Group View Post

            WOW Sal,

            Had I known what you would have spun what I said, then I DEFINITELY would not have participated in your Poll or responded honestly to!

            Sorry, but I don't appreciate you dissecting my response for YOUR personal pleasure!

            I DID value your responses on this forum, but now ... WOW ... I just can't find the words to describe how disappointed I feel right now!

            Sad & Disappointed Warrior!

            JMB
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              • Profile picture of the author CDarklock
                Originally Posted by JMB Marketing Group View Post

                I hope you understand where I'm coming from ... emotionally!
                I see you have the words "public domain" in your title.

                Doesn't that mean you take stuff written by someone else and exploit it for personal gain within the established limits of the law?

                That's what Sal did; he thought his modification of your post was a "fair use" under existing copyright standards, and he's probably right.

                I hope you understand where I'm coming from... objectively.
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                "The Golden Town is the Golden Town no longer. They have sold their pillars for brass and their temples for money, they have made coins out of their golden doors. It is become a dark town full of trouble, there is no ease in its streets, beauty has left it and the old songs are gone." - Lord Dunsany, The Messengers
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                • Profile picture of the author Kevin Riley
                  Sal

                  I couldn't honestly select a single item on your poll:

                  1. A lack of routine? Make one. I get up every morning and check my e-mails and other message centers over coffee. The morning is for productivity or meetings after 10:00. Do a few hours of project work after lunch. Afternoon break and run or gym. Work until 7 on projects.

                  2. No dedicated work area? A 2.5 x 4 meter office in our home, with a door so I can shut out sounds for webinars and interviews. Desk runs along two walls. 4 computers at the ready.

                  3. Find yourself working longer? Fortunate to be able to work as long or short as I want. If I was in an office elsewhere, I'd feel frustrated at the things I couldn't do when I have an hour left before dinner, or such.

                  4. Not enough quiet in the house? Not a problem as we just have two guinea pigs. as long as they have food, they are happy and quiet.

                  5. Too many distractions? Only if you let them be. I'll answer Skype and Facebook in the mornings, but after lunch I avoid them and get into a productivity mode until gym time.
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                  • Profile picture of the author sal64
                    Excellent bit of advice for everyone. Thx John.

                    Originally Posted by John Taylor View Post

                    Working from home requires self discipline and
                    motivation....

                    For everyone in the house.

                    You need to install the discipline of focussing
                    on your business and not allowing yourself to
                    be distracted.

                    Everyone else on the house needs to fully
                    understand that when you are at work you
                    must not be distracted.

                    I'm not saying it's easy... but you need to
                    have a clear set of ground-rules and stick to
                    them.

                    John
                    lol, Kev... I was trying to add some more options to the poll yesterday, but if some one can show me how....

                    Originally Posted by Kevin Riley View Post

                    Sal

                    I couldn't honestly select a single item on your poll:

                    1. A lack of routine? Make one. I get up every morning and check my e-mails and other message centers over coffee. The morning is for productivity or meetings after 10:00. Do a few hours of project work after lunch. Afternoon break and run or gym. Work until 7 on projects.

                    2. No dedicated work area? A 2.5 x 4 meter office in our home, with a door so I can shut out sounds for webinars and interviews. Desk runs along two walls. 4 computers at the ready.

                    3. Find yourself working longer? Fortunate to be able to work as long or short as I want. If I was in an office elsewhere, I'd feel frustrated at the things I couldn't do when I have an hour left before dinner, or such.

                    4. Not enough quiet in the house? Not a problem as we just have two guinea pigs. as long as they have food, they are happy and quiet.

                    5. Too many distractions? Only if you let them be. I'll answer Skype and Facebook in the mornings, but after lunch I avoid them and get into a productivity mode until gym time.
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  • Profile picture of the author vtotheyouknow
    Great thread Sal.

    I really don't know what works best for MOST people but I personally take plenty of breaks to go out and get some sunshine (did you know sunshine is the #1 source of vitamin D, one of the most important mood enhancing and testosterone raising hormone?).

    I also make sure to exercise, go out for drinks and spit some game and generally keep it balanced.

    Now, discipline is a tricky subject because some people NEED structure and routine and a boss to stay focused and productive. I thrive on freedom and the opposite is true for me but I recognize that other people work best under different conditions. That's where setting up processes and circumstances to engineer maximum productivity come into play. Go to a Starbucks where you'd feel embarrassed to sit looking at Facebook for an hour or work at a co-working office where other people inspire you and the fear of shame motivate you. We can't always control our behavior worth a damn, but we can control the circumstances that make useful behaviors inevitable. It's what Eben Pagan calls inevitability thinking and it's dern powerful. Oh crap, I've just ranted. Time to go! :p
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  • Profile picture of the author sal64
    Hmmmm. undies... not shaving... breakfast at mid day? Life is good.

    I love it. Especially when I have travel into town for any reason and I see all these stressed out, unhappy people spending the majority of their hard-earned keeping up am image so that they can climb the corporate ladder. Not that there's anything wrong with that... it's just after 20 odd years, it's not for me.

    For a few years I did have serviced office. But frankly I didn't like it for all the pluses. I now have a dedicated home office by converting half my garage and fitting it out.

    Apart from the above, I have found that the convenience of being near a PC means that it's too easy to just keep working.

    So it doesn't surprise me that people end up working longer hours because of that and the financial constraints.

    Earlier this year I went back to my building background and called in a few favours. So I now work about 20 hours doing building maintenance. Money's good and I lose weight.
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  • Profile picture of the author blittzs
    Hey listen, you cant give up, internet marketing is really hard since there's so many people that do it, competition is big, i started internet marketing last year, i never quit my regular job, i make about $1000 a month from online, but i know it will grow one day big.
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  • Profile picture of the author TravellingMissie
    I didn't vote as there wasn't an 'all of the above' option. Everything that you mentioned has got me from time after time.

    I have now started to go to the library after I finish my offline job and it has helped me work more efficiently. There are other people there working, it is a different environment and I only have a limited amount of time to do the work. It has worked so much better for me.
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  • Profile picture of the author Gary Huynh
    I found that working out of your house is the only option in the beginning. However, once you have made some consistent income with your business, you should try to look for office space (if you're not single and living by yourself). Try to find an executive suite close to your home. Many of them can be had for under $500 a month with no commitments.
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  • Profile picture of the author Zaheera
    I think the balance in everything gives us balanced life... and dis-balance in everything either its home based job or office job... dis-balance our life

    Work from home is the free hand work... we does not take any permission from any one. Like working in office. NO boss, NO worry.

    When we feel, the work at home takes too much time, its means that we are crazy about our working. and wants to get more and more in any hour.

    Just free your brain out of this thought to get more and more. then check you feel the problem lies in ourself ... not be able to control the situation and understand the importance of other working in our life.

    Just get your brain out of this thought to generate more money. It will give you relax working both .... either you are working at office or working at home.
    This is the only path to relax your mind.

    I personally try it, and now feel too relax. Now, i have too much time to do other work rather than my business.

    All the Best!
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  • Profile picture of the author Daniel Wilson
    Libraries with wi-fi are awesome to get some work done. But you'd lose about 1 hour just for transport(at least me).
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  • Profile picture of the author John Taylor
    Working from home requires self discipline and
    motivation....

    For everyone in the house.

    You need to install the discipline of focussing
    on your business and not allowing yourself to
    be distracted.

    Everyone else on the house needs to fully
    understand that when you are at work you
    must not be distracted.

    I'm not saying it's easy... but you need to
    have a clear set of ground-rules and stick to
    them.

    John
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  • Profile picture of the author zamzung
    I agree with you, you can have problems and distractions when working from home, but that whole story also have different back-end... once you get behind those problems, by setting up your home office o working hours regime that everyone will take care about, and similar to that, it's much pleasant to work from home than going to the office each and every day, have a boss, etc...
    Another thing, which I did... I've set up my own office... not in my house so I can avoid all those distractions, but it's still different from classic offices, it's quite and pleasant place where I can do my work done...
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  • Profile picture of the author Noner
    I think working at home is difficult unless you have a separate room where to work. There are so many distractions that it's very difficult to keep concentrated unless you commit yourself to a specific place and time. I do think it's possible though and many people seem to work successfully from home.

    I personally use a strategy that I go to my kitchen, lock the door and come out when I've finished. It works like a charm for me and just try it. Also if you have kids or a wife better lock them up somewhere... just kidding.
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    • Profile picture of the author hardraysnight
      but my office is wherever i happen to be

      all i need is internet and my netbook

      if i need to impress i take my back up drive too
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      • Profile picture of the author AprilCT
        I prefer working at home and would not want to go out to an office. Since I've changed over to writing mostly only for myself, there aren't any nasty deadlines to meet (except for what is self imposed) and I come and go as I please.

        Where I used to live, I had a whole, rather large room for my office. Unfortunately, that is not the case now. The good thing is that I tend to work more at night when it's quiet, and my set up is close to the kitchen so I can cook and work without running up and down the steps.

        As I get busier, my attitude toward wanting an outside office won't change. The only thing that will change is moving my work space and maybe having to run up and down the steps to cook.

        It's so nice to be able to sleep in and stay inside when there's deep snow outside, the weather is cold or it's way too hot outside. I don't have to go out unless I want to go somewhere, and if I do, it's on my own terms.
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    • Profile picture of the author jhuman
      Yes, I think the biggest challenge was separating the home and work mode of thinking. It took awhile but something that made it easier to do was when I disciplined my time management into "chunking" smaller pieces. For example, when I was in the process of securing a client, i created a folder and calendar, hardcopy and digital copy to show me the stream of work flow coming down the pipeline; daily action towards the chunking slowly developed habits. Another aspect that helped me was on Sundays to spend about 30min - 1hr of using total focus on exactly what my plans of action were for the next 2 weeks and every morning right after my meditation session I would focus on what had to happen that day and in the evenings I would review the mini-successes and acknowledge the errors but learn and grow from them. Then on the following Sunday, I would review what happened during the week and again total focus on the next 2 weeks. The main thing I found to be useful for the "2-week look ahead formula" was to be flexible enough to hit in the range of the target but determined to hammer out the details to get closer.
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    • Profile picture of the author birdman87
      i think people consider work from home a paradise because they associate it with freedom of choice.

      if you cannot choose the when, where, why's, hows and who with's you may as well be working in an office somewhere. i guess the aim is to get to that kind of true financial freedom. if you're at the point of already working from home you're on the right track at least.

      really suggest people read a book called the four hour work week by tim ferriss. often gets bad press on here but i do believe it's a brilliant book.

      check out his tips on cultivating selective ignorance and avoiding information overload.

      i find that i just sabotage myself too often when at home.

      as tim says, energy and interest are cyclical. sometimes when i'm doing less work i tend to get more work done. overworking at home, which is always easy to do, makes me a really inefficient worker that's easily distracted.
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  • Profile picture of the author BabyMama
    I used to find myself lacking focus and ending up working longer hours than I wanted to.
    I now split up my day and write a to do list first thing with all the tasks I need to do.

    I love working from home and found that now I can focus and put in the time I get done what I need to do.

    I also find myself wanting to check emails and forum posts etc more often than I should. Smart phones are dangerous. I found it helpful to charge my phone over night in a seperate room from my bedroom as I get tempted to check my emails in the middle of the night otherwise lol
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  • Profile picture of the author investasap
    As much as its nice to work from home, i find its disracting with havin my family here and people popping round often,sometimes its difficult to get work done, i am too thinking about a small office,or a house i can divide into 2 parts
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  • Profile picture of the author paulpower
    Personally speaking I adore working at home, I get to see my daughter grow up, and believe me working for a living sure means you miss a lot of that.

    Also, working at home gives me the freedom to take and pick my daughter up from school, which has with God's graces enabled me to build a stronger, more meaningful relationship with her.

    Finally, I have discovered that working from home I do not have someone watching me all the time, and keeping time on the time I take to go to the restroom, or telling me I have to work later because of some deadline.

    All in all, I have to say it's a great life for me working from home.
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    • Profile picture of the author sal64
      This is an awesome aspect. I have been blessed to be around for my 2 kids. I share the school drop off / pick up, and get read to them before bed time.

      I didn't realize how much I missed with my son until I was able to be home for my daughter.

      Some close friend's children hardly get time with their dad, which is sad IMO.



      Originally Posted by paulpower View Post

      Personally speaking I adore working at home, I get to see my daughter grow up, and believe me working for a living sure means you miss a lot of that.

      Also, working at home gives me the freedom to take and pick my daughter up from school, which has with God's graces enabled me to build a stronger, more meaningful relationship with her.

      Finally, I have discovered that working from home I do not have someone watching me all the time, and keeping time on the time I take to go to the restroom, or telling me I have to work later because of some deadline.

      All in all, I have to say it's a great life for me working from home.
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  • Profile picture of the author absolutelee
    Yeah, there are certainly issues with working from home, but they are certainly much fewer than the issues of working at a J.O.B. I'm not sure that the cost of an office would be worth it for me. If I need time to myself, I just go to the local coffee shop and sit there. I actually like working around my kids, because I get to school them in entrepreneurship.
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  • Profile picture of the author sal64
    ok...

    So how about the temptation to get online?

    My wife hates it because I am always on the laptop. Sadly, I am lost when I don't have connection.

    This probably my biggest weakness.
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    • Profile picture of the author John Taylor
      Originally Posted by sal64 View Post

      So how about the temptation to get online?
      A couple of suggestions...

      1. Only allow yourself "browsing" time as a reward for
      achieving a specific task or objective.

      2. Set aside specific times in the day for "browsing" and
      stick to those times.

      3. Think about one specific boss or teacher from your
      past who was tough on you. When you feel tempted to
      "browse".. just ask yourself what would that person say
      if they caught you?

      Oops that was three. ;-)

      John
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      • Profile picture of the author Tina Golden
        Originally Posted by John Taylor View Post

        A couple of suggestions...

        1. Only allow yourself "browsing" time as a reward for
        achieving a specific task or objective.

        2. Set aside specific times in the day for "browsing" and
        stick to those times.

        3. Think about one specific boss or teacher from your
        past who was tough on you. When you feel tempted to
        "browse".. just ask yourself what would that person say
        if they caught you?

        Oops that was three. ;-)

        John
        I could be wrong here but I think Sal was referring to the temptation to get online when not working - as in being connected ALL the time instead of taking time off the computer. I know that's my biggest battle now and one I'm trying to curb.

        I shut down my office every evening at supper time but then I'm on my netbook all evening. I've been getting a lot of comments about that lately so now I need to cut the internet ties during personal time.
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      • Profile picture of the author John Romaine
        Originally Posted by John Taylor View Post

        Oops that was three. ;-)

        John
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        Those that can count, and those that cant
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  • Profile picture of the author braincandy7
    I find that the distractions are part of the problem.

    Also my fairly unsupportive other half who doesn't really believe in all this "online stuff" even though she sees the money come in.

    Luckily I now have a business partner for a JV and it's a massive help with motivation, creativity and most important support. It's nice to have completed a task and get a acknowledgement from someone, be part of a team again.
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    • Profile picture of the author sal64
      Lack of support and more so a lack of belief can drag you down. It not only applies to IM, but I'd say most home based businesses. It may also be that the said person may feel some envy about your situation or they just don't think that we do real work.

      I have found cash flow to be the best cure.

      I also agree with a JV partner and I have sought a few out... sometimes it's just nice to have a chat with some one who "understands" you.

      I guess that's why this place is so popular.

      Sal

      Originally Posted by braincandy7 View Post

      I find that the distractions are part of the problem.

      Also my fairly unsupportive other half who doesn't really believe in all this "online stuff" even though she sees the money come in.

      Luckily I now have a business partner for a JV and it's a massive help with motivation, creativity and most important support. It's nice to have completed a task and get a acknowledgement from someone, be part of a team again.
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  • Profile picture of the author sprice
    Working from home is HARD. It takes a lot of self-motivation and discipline to work for yourself. But the rewards are phenomenal!
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  • Profile picture of the author dagaul101
    It's a certain that those working from home, the majority of them put inmore hours than they would a real life 9 to 5 job
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  • Profile picture of the author Winson Ng
    Working from home is great ! You have all the time you want plus there's no extra distractions like what you get from office e.g noisy colleagues, never ending calls, millions of incoming emails requests etc. And of course, you still have to maintain a strict self discipline to get your work done and not procrastinating. Hope this helps ! =)

    Cheers !
    ThinkMaverick
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  • Profile picture of the author rooze
    The key to working at home is learning to cook.
    I worked at home for several years and started to go crazy. Always on the computer, never took a break, 14 hours per day nonstop.
    Then I actually went crazy, rented an office, turned it into a retail store, bought a jewelry store, opened two art galleries, bought a live music venue with art gallery and retail store....then....after a 6 year binge of madness... dumped the lot and started working from home again

    Now I make sure I cook dinner every night. I stop work at 5:30 and spend 2 hours in the kitchen making an elaborate dinner. By the time I've eaten and done the dishes I'm too knackered to go back on the computer. Plus, I don't need to work on internet marketing anymore so that helps
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    • Profile picture of the author Bill_Z
      Originally Posted by rooze View Post

      The key to working at home is learning to cook.
      I worked at home for several years and started to go crazy. Always on the computer, never took a break, 14 hours per day nonstop.
      Then I actually went crazy, rented an office, turned it into a retail store, bought a jewelry store, opened two art galleries, bought a live music venue with art gallery and retail store....then....after a 6 year binge of madness... dumped the lot and started working from home again

      Now I make sure I cook dinner every night. I stop work at 5:30 and spend 2 hours in the kitchen making an elaborate dinner. By the time I've eaten and done the dishes I'm too knackered to go back on the computer. Plus, I don't need to work on internet marketing anymore so that helps
      I do the same thing. I have set times I stop and cook a meal as cooking is a hobby I enjoy. It's a great break away from the computer, is relaxing, and of course I always enjoy the food
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  • Profile picture of the author flocon
    I also find that focus is something that is challenging. Have you tried forbidding everyone at your house from interrupting you while you are working?

    I am not doing it full time. However as a suggestion, I could say that instead of taking an office maybe you could try to make it harder for distraction to get on your way. This is an advice for myself also.
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  • Profile picture of the author TryBPO
    Working longer hours is definitely my struggle...it's hard for me to maintain a work-life balance. My business partner, Joe, made a great post about his daily schedule and how he tries to balance everything out...the "AdSense Lifestyle" hehe

    Living The AdSense Lifestyle | AdSense Flippers

    It's not nearly as glamorous as it's made out to be...but I WILL say we get to do some pretty cool traveling and get to see some cool stuff. (Singapore/Bali here I come...9 days, baby!)
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  • Profile picture of the author Rick Tew
    I have been working from at home or a mobile office as of late the majority of my life. It takes some qualities that you may not have or that are not in your comfort zone. Consider how some people can get a 9-5 job and live in one location their ENTIRE lives. That's not me, I travel often, move when I can and focus on giving and getting the most out of this experience.

    However, I know the challenges you face with a home office as well as the benefits.

    01 SELF-DISCIPLINE

    This can be the big one as you really need to set some time for yourself. Pick a MINIMUM of Two hours every day where you are at your best for work. For some, this is in the morning when they are fresh and the brain had time to rest (or ponder a question you gave it before you went to sleep). For others it's at night. I usually split mine up into TWO parts. I only need about 6 hours of sleep so I am often up till about 2am. The late hours give me a lot of focus. In the morning I try to get in a bit more around 9am.

    It will also help to pick the TWO most important tasks of the day to focus on so you don't get too far behind if you procrastinate.

    02 WORK LIFE SEPARATION

    When you work that is what you should be doing. You should NOT be trying to combine working and home unless somehow they mix with your business strategy. It's bad enough that people bring work home anyway. If you have your office at home in the living room or in the kitchen or where you can not focus, you are asking for trouble and you may not get time to really THINK. If you see the computer sitting over there just waiting for you Calling out for you.

    When I am in Bangkok I have to set up a ritual for myself to stay on schedule. Even though my serviced apartment is a perfect office. I still take myself out each day with my mobile office (laptop or ipad) and do my work OUT of the house. Now if you need tools with you, this may not be possible but my office is mobile. So if yours isn't mobile, then you need a place where you can go and NOT be distracted or where you will still be able to live your life.

    Some people prefer a laptop because they feel that being able to CLOSE it helps them to stay focused on LIFE TIME as opposed to WORK TIME.

    03 YOUR WAY

    I find that making work FUN is also important. When I do a lot of typing or need to look at the screen I use a TV with an HDMI input. I sit on a comfortable couch with a wireless keyboard on my lap and I have the mouse on the couch at my side. This may not be a DESK but I am far more comfortable and don't get issues with back pain. I also have my feet up on a table which makes working even more fun

    I recently partnered up with a company here in Holland and they are creating an office for me. I said it needs a whiteboard, a couch and a flat screen TV minimum 42 inch and I am good to go. So, make your work the way you want to.

    I could write an e-book on the subject, so I will stop now. It's not so much about what is better as it is about what is better for you. I find that having some kind of BASE is very helpful when you need to be creative and have the time to build and grow. I call it going into the cave or having a lab. It's just my area of focus. But I have set up rituals that allow me to really focus.

    I purposely will walk when I know I could drive in order to THINK of ideas and get excited about another work session.

    If you find a project is sitting in the back of your head and taking up mental space - find your favorite way to either get the job done or throw it in the trash and move on to something that motivates you. I find that when I dread a project, that if I take time to ask questions like (how can I make this fun or reward myself in one way or another) that I can at the very least get started on it. Most solutions simply require STARTING.

    Oh and before you spend your valuable time - determine your hourly value. If you feel you are worth $20 an hour then outsource every task that you can outsource at $10 an hour and put that free hour into something ONLY YOU CAN DO.
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  • Profile picture of the author sal64
    Wow, awesome response and feedback... thanks to EVERYONE!

    Here's one which should have been included in the poll... and not often discussed: Self belief.

    I raise this point because firstly, it is something I had to overcome and secondly, because we are pretty much programmed from when we are children that the right course in life is to get an education, a safe career and get married.

    In some cultures, this is more prevalent than others.

    This can lead to feelings of guilt and anxiety when making the transition. Probably not as much in western culture, but strong family ties can be just as impacting... especially if your move goes against family traditions.

    Has anyone else felt this and how did you deal with it?

    Sal
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