So, you have decided to leave the traditional brick and mortar environment of the old 9-5…as if it was ever getting out at 5, right? Well, maybe you were getting out at 5, but certainly not home. One of the perks of working at home is that when you get out of work, you’re home. No more commuting, which I have always felt is a waste of time.
I am sure you will enjoy it as much as I have been. If I could give you one valuable piece of advice though, it would be to create a home office that is dedicated to your career. In other words, not out in the open, sharing the dining room table, or on the couch.
If you think that you will be just fine on the couch, read on to learn about what I believe is 4 good reasons why you should have a space specifically for your work.
Reason #1 – Fewer Distractions
The traditional office has its share of distractions, such as unexpected meetings, other employees interrupting you, noisy background, and depending on your market, customers walking in. You won’t have much of that in a home office, even though you will have a different variety to deal with each day.
If you have children, their chatter and playtime will most likely be a form of distraction, no matter how good you are at ‘drowning it out’. Other distractions could be neighbors stopping by and pets wanting to go outside. Even well-meaning family members who are trying to be quiet can be a distraction as they move around the home.
Having a dedicated home office, one that can be shut off with a door, will eliminate the majority of those distractions I mentioned above. Of course, nothing will eliminate it completely…but, a shut door will do wonders.
Reason #2 – More Focus
By being able to eliminate the majority of distractions, you will be able to focus more on the task at hand. However, if you are like me, then you might not want it too quiet either. A little background music will help with that, especially instrumental.
It’s also your room now, to set it up as you want, with the comfort and function that is appropriate for you specifically. For example, if you want a reading area, where you can do a little research or reading in comfort, leather recliner chairs, coffee tables, and lamps are all things you can consider, based on your comfort and available space to provide a better atmosphere for focusing.
Reason #3 – Setting Boundaries
No matter how much work we put into the home office, and provide a place where we can focus much better, there still is a need to set boundaries. Those boundaries are much easier to set in your own space. Here are some ideas:
- Set rules for what your children can interrupt you for, such as for injury, if someone comes to the door, or whatever you feel is a necessary interruption. Changing the channel on the television, or choosing sides in their latest spat is not what I would deem as necessary. But, it’s your call of course.
- Set specific times for breaks and lunches. This will let the children know when they can talk to you about the things they aren’t supposed to interrupt you with, such as ‘why is the sky blue’ type questions.
- Determine whether or not anyone else will be allowed in your office, or on your computer. A tip; the more you allow this, the more chances of it being taken over someday. So, if you are OK with allowing the kids on your computer, or in your office, then perhaps limit it, with guidelines they will understand.
If you find yourself having difficulty in adhering to your boundaries, re-evaluate them. Perhaps one of the biggest lines that will be pushed is the kids interrupting for silly questions. If that happens, get a timer and make them set it for 10 minutes before asking a question. Chances are they will forget what that question is before it goes off.
Reason #4 – A Motivator
By creating a stunning office, which is dedicated to your career allowing for the ability to provide for your family, it will most likely motivate you far more than sitting in setting that might even be rotating, depending on the day. Quite often, if a person is proud of their space, it provides incentive and motivation, like a shot of adrenaline.
To Sum It Up…
I have just shared 4 great reasons why you should find a space in your home to dedicate as your office. It really doesn’t matter if you agree with all of them. One would be reason enough, in my opinion. I speak from experience on how distracting it can be when you don’t have one, and won’t do without again.
Rick Mercado gave up his career as a land surveyor to become a writer and online marketer. He often works from his home office, but will occasionally opt for a change of scenery at the local coffee house. Rick writes on a variety of topics and draws inspiration from unsuspecting areas, such as when reading www.reclinerchairreviews.com, a series of articles on furnishing a home office was born. On his down time, he enjoys kayaking, hiking, and cooking. Rick resides in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and is married.
