This is a recent article I had in my monthly newsletter ~ visit www.simplesos.com and join our monthly mailing.

Home Office Boundaries

Working out of your own home office can be great.  Right?  Sometimes do you ever wonder if it is the right choice for you?  Many small business owners today, work out of their own homes.  However, sometimes it feels like you never have a break and you are “working” 24/7, wondering if having your own business is really that great.  Don’t worry ~ IT IS!  The key is to be able to minimize your distractions, keep focused on the goal, and set boundaries for your business!

SIX Tips from SOS ~ Simple Organized Solutions

1.  ONE DAY OF REST – It is important to have one day designated as a no business day.  Actually this will not hurt your business, it will help it.  You need one day to relax, enjoy your family and refresh your mind.  You will be amazed at how great you will feel and how inspired you will be when you get back to business.

2.  DEFINE WORK AND PERSONAL SPACE – It is important to have a designated area as your work space.  This will mentally help you each day go to “work”.    For example, my children are in my office but do not “color” or “draw” on my desk because papers are then mingled and mixed.  Another side note, do not share a business and home computer, it will save you alot of stress!

3.  SET RULES AND STICK TO THEM – It is important to set rules to communicate the time you will spend in your office and what you expect from your family during this time.  Set Office Hours and STICK TO THEM!  Too many times you get “sucked” into other people’s office hours- don’t!  With young children you won’t be able to be in your office all day but you do need to let them know that even though you are at home, you are working. This will help them understand how important your work time is.

4.  HIRE HELP -

I know this is hard for many moms because they usually start a business to be able to stay at home.  But, sometimes a little extra help from family members or friends can make a world of difference.  I know that many times I can get done in 2 hours what would take me an entire day, if someone helps me out with my children! 

5.  GO AWAY , GET A HOBBY

Take the time to get away on mini-vacations or develop a passionate hobby.  No matter how small it is it will help you avoid the “itch” to be in your office during days you have off.  It will help open your mind, recharge you and make you a better small business owner!

6.  BEING THE BOSS

You are your own boss so you need to ask yourself, “If I was working for someone, would my boss let me do this?”  For example, taking personal calls during working hours, don’t start because it won’t stop.  Also, interruptions from family or friends.  Would you be allowed to have unlimited visits at work, or check your e-mail every five minutes?  I always ask myself, “If I was paying somebody else to do what I did today would I be happy with their productivity?”

Hope these are helpful tips for you to excel in your business venture.