Okay. You're all excited. You've been wanting to do this for-e-ver. No more commute; no more boss over your shoulder; No more rigid hours. You're going to finally work from home. But do you really have what it takes to work from home? Are you a work from home type of person? I am, and hopefully you are too. But, look over all the facts and pros and cons before you make the big leap.
Are You an Extrovert?
Do you need to be around people? Do you like to be in the mix of things, always keeping up with what's going on? If so, working from home may not be for you. On the other hand, if you are more of an introvert, then working from home may be ideal. Or, you may be one that can balance their need of people along with your alone time at home. But, it's good to take an honest look at yourself before moving forward.
Do You Have Self-Discipline?
Are you one that needs someone to give you a "to do" list in order to get things done? Do you need to be given deadlines or told what is needed? If so, you may have a problem working from home. You'll need to be able to have the discipline to prioritize work, give yourself deadlines, make yourself a structured schedule in order to produce the work you need to make a paycheck. Lacking in this area can be devastating. So, if you're serious, you may want to get a book on self-discipline or time management.
Are You Easily Distracted?
When working from home, a lot of distractions can raise their ugly head. Kids or your spouse may think that since you're home, you can still help or wait on them whenever wanted. As friends learn you're home, the phone may be ringing quite a bit more or they may be stopping by to chat. Facebook alerts may have you checking out what just happened. You may be one of those type folks that can write blogs, take care of three children and wash a couple of loads of clothes all at the same time without flinching. More power to you! But, if you're like me, you'll need to mute your cell phone, turn off social media alerts, and explain to the family while you're in your "office", (designate an area) you are at your job and wait until lunch break or until you are done for the day.
Be Realistic
Working from home can be rewarding and a dream come true. It also can be empty and a nightmare. It totally depends on what kind of person you are and how you handle things. I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world but I have friends that relish being around the gang all day at work and would be lost at home by themselves. So you have to take a realistic look at who you are and what you can do.
Pajama Party Forever
I know you have visions of sitting at the laptop in your pajamas, coffee in hand, working to your heart's content. And there are times I actually do that, but, you need to have the discipline to make yourself work. Working from home is way harder than working at the office. You reap the full benefits of what you do. No one else. And if you are the bread- winner of the family, then there's more pressure. So, before you make the move home from the office, either for yourself or for your company, be sure you have what it takes to work from home. And if you do, have a cup of coffee for me!
