What to think about before running your business from home

As technology continues to shape the way we live, many businesses are choosing to eschew a traditional office for working out of their homes. Between email, instant messages, and video conferencing, it seems less important than ever to share space with clients and coworkers. Are you thinking about running a business from your home? If so, here are a few tips to help you find success.

Personality

Before making the major step of bringing your business into your house, take a moment for some honest self-reflection. Are you the kind of person who is disciplined enough to get your work done when there are other tasks and chores you might rather be doing while you’re at home? Also consider the other side of that coin: Without an office to leave behind each evening, will you have trouble shutting down for the day and find yourself working longer hours than necessary?

Separation

Many people find that having a physical separation between their home office and the rest of their house is enormously beneficial. If you have a spare bedroom or basement space you can convert to a designated work area, it can help you focus on your work and shut out the noise and responsibilities of the rest of your home.

Set office hours

One of the best parts of running a business from home is that you can set your own hours. While you’ll need to be considerate of the schedules of your customers and vendors, you may soon decide that you work better in the mornings and can get everything done by the early afternoon. Whatever you decide these hours will be, make sure they are consistent so you can maintain a healthy routine and your team knows when to get in touch with you.

Take breaks

Breaks tend to come naturally in an office environment. Whether it’s coworkers stopping by to chat or a birthday celebration in the break room, you’ll likely get up from your desk a few times a day to stretch your legs and take a mental breather. Without these natural breaks, you may find yourself working for hours on end without realising it. Schedule times in your day to take a break, whether you go down the street for a cup of coffee or take your dog for a walk. You’ll be more productive for it.