Working from home is something that likely appeals to most of us. Thoughts of avoiding an ugly commute, saving money on gas, staying in your pajamas all day, and choosing your own work hours will likely inspire you to feel a sense of control over your own destiny, with the added bonus of freedom from stress. I have been a home-based freelancer for the past five years and it has definitely been a learning experience for me. I have owned and operated 2 different online crafting businesses, and also have worked as a freelance proofreader. It has taken me some time to find my niche, but I must say that working from home is fabulous. Of course, my choice to start a career at home has not been completely free of pitfalls. It has been, and continues to be, a learning experience. Here are some of the things I have learned along the way.
Don’t let your business take over your life! When you are operating an online business, you are open 24/7 and it is all too easy to fall into the trap of spending every waking hour clicking away on your computer. I have had days where I hardly spoke to my family, didn’t get dressed or go outside (even on the nicest days), went to the fridge to get a snack (only to find that it was empty), and couldn’t quite figure out why my house was so messy and that I didn’t have anything clean in my closet to wear. My hard-learned lessons include:
1. Figure out exactly how many hours you want to work each day, and stick to it. For example, I am early riser and with coffee in hand I am at my keyboard by 6:00 a.m. Because I start so early, I always make sure that I only work until 3:00 p.m. During the remainder of the day, I will “periodically” check my emails and send any necessary responses, but that is all.
2. Schedule some time daily (during your working hours) to network, market, chat, advertise, etc. to keep your business profitable. With any online or freelance business, you need to get your business name and services well known and networking is required. But, don’t spend all of your free hours doing this. If you schedule it into your day, you will maintain a better balance in your life and keep your free hours for you, your family and your friends.
3. Create a budget and stick to it. Having your own business can be very profitable, but there will always be lean times as well. It is wise to design a budget that will not only keep your business running, but will also leave you some cash during the lean time or slower shopping seasons.
4. Get dressed! I know, this sounds stupid but I can’t begin to tell you what a huge difference this will make in your day. It is so tempting to just hit the keyboard first thing in the morning and stay there in your pajamas or sweatpants all day. Your motivation, inspiration, enthusiasm, creativity, and confidence will increase and you will have a much more productive day.
Effective management of your home-based business is really about managing yourself and your energy. It is about making the necessary changes within yourself so that you make the best use out of every hour in your day. Get in touch with yourself and how you really want to spend your time and your life.
Many wishes for a successful business, and a happy, contented, and fulfilled life!
