Working From Home

By Helen Dowling

What you need to know

ท Make a separate space in your home to work from. Keep all your papers and work related things together in this one place. Make sure that your family members know that this is YOUR space to work in and to respect that you are busy if you are in it

ท There is always that temptation to do �a little bit more� when you work from home. At an office, you can walk away from it. When working from home still try to start the day and finish it at set times.

ท Get organised by setting up paper and computer filing systems to streamline your work. This will also help the environment to feel more like an office.

ท Try to establish a support network of other people who are also working from home. Being away from the office environment can be lonely so it is essential to maintain contact with those that can help and support.

ท Make sure that you still take regular breaks away from your computer and desk. Drink plenty of water and take a lunch break.

ท Make a list of everything that is important to you - your goals, your family, friends, gym, walking the dog, etc in order of priority. Allocate time each week in line with that priority and stick to it.

ท Make a list of things that need to done every day from calling new prospects to having a cup of tea at 10.30 and answering emails. Try not to encourage friends to drop by on a regular basis during working hours.

ท To stay motivated and focussed break down your tasks into manageable chunks. Aim to do some by 10am and the rest by lunchtime for example. This way you�ll be able to reward yourself with breaks. Also list your achievements - so for every task still to do, there's one you've already done.

ท If you�re working from with children and family around be honest about what is expected of each other and encourage a team ethics. You cannot work all day and still do the washing, ironing, cooking etc. DELEGATE!

ท HAVE FUN! Keep some time for things that you enjoy during the week. All work and no play makes life very tedious.