The narrative of individuals regretting their decision to abandon the corporate world to establish a home-based business is a common one. Whether they were laid off, took early retirement, or simply grew tired of the grueling commute and long workdays, the reasons vary. Some may even retain their corporate jobs while working part-time from home to supplement their income. The reasons are diverse and not the focus of this discussion.
Many individuals are lured into starting their own home-based businesses by the enticing prospect of working in their pajamas whenever they feel like it. However, after a month or so, they are jolted back to reality when they realize they are not making any money.
When working for an employer, there are set expectations such as specific work hours, dress codes, and targets to meet. These expectations, often set by someone else, provide a structure that many take for granted. Running a home-based business, however, requires self-discipline. A common misconception is that one can work whenever they want and still make a substantial income. This is far from the truth.
Running a business, whether it's a physical establishment or a home-based one, requires hard work. It often demands more effort than working for an employer. As the boss, you must be prepared to handle all aspects of your business, including tasks you may not enjoy.
To successfully work from home, you must establish a regular schedule and stick to it. This is particularly crucial if your business involves phone calls. If potential clients cannot reach you during normal business hours, they will quickly move on. For online businesses, normal business hours typically range from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, considering the three time zones in the USA.
Even if your business does not involve phone calls, maintaining regular hours is still essential. Setting and meeting daily goals is also crucial. Many people procrastinate, thinking they can always do it tomorrow. However, for many, tomorrow never comes, and tasks that should have been completed remain undone.
The idea of working in your pajamas may sound appealing, but it's largely a myth. Having an effective, distraction-free workspace is vital. Your workspace should be quiet, out of the way, and off-limits during your work hours. It should be treated like an office and kept tidy. Being organized allows you to quickly find the information you need when a client calls.
Emails should be dealt with promptly and filed in a place where they can be easily found. Emails older than 30 days should be deleted as they are likely no longer relevant.
By avoiding the common pitfalls of home-based businesses, you stand a better chance of succeeding in your venture.
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