subject: Staying Motivated When Working At Home [print this page] Telecommuting also known as working from home is becoming more and more popular today. Just a few years ago it was quite difficult to find a real work at home job. Today, it is a win/win situation for all involved. Employers are able to save on the bottom line by using telecommuters because they don't have the expense of the brick and mortar building and in if they are using independent contractors they also save on insurance and taxes.
On the other hand, the work at home workforce often gets to customize a schedule and have the much coveted flexibility that a traditional call center does not offer.
If you are an experienced telecommuter you know that the work at home world is not full of sugar and spice and everything nice. It has its ups and downs. Whether you are working at home to make a living or just a little extra shopping money, you want to be successful. One of the greatest obstacles to working at home is staying motivated. Here are a few steps to take to remain the work at home dynamo that you are.
Have a Comfortable Workplace
How would you feel if you went on a job interview and while taking a tour of the facility, you were shown your prospective work area which consisted of a computer on a TV tray type of table and a cardboard box to sit on? Chances are you wouldn't dare take that job. So why would you accept uncomfortable digs just because you work at home? A good desk and chair are essential along with a nice sized computer screen. An extra bedroom can be easily transformed to a wonderful workspace. In order to do a good job you have to be comfortable.
Separate Work Life from Home Life
Discipline is a much needed virtue to be successful. There has to be a clear distinction between work time and everything else. Some people even go so far as to get dressed in traditional work attire to help keep them on task. Set a schedule and stick to it. Getting distracted can be very easy with demanding children, barking dogs and a ringing doorbell; however it is important to adhere to your schedules unless it's an emergency. And no, chasing the ice cream truck is not an emergency! don't forget to incorporate break times in your schedule.
Do What You Like
There is a vast variety of work at home jobs to choose from. Enough so that you are able to choose what type of work you want to do. This is the time to choose your path and follow it. Sure, your first work at home position may not be your ideal but the possibilities are endless. It may take trying a few different places to find your perfect match, but gone are the days of having to take anything just for the sake of working. Find what you love to do and have fun doing it!