Category: Work from Home

There are more than 3.7 million people working from home for at least half their work time. That’s not including self-employed people. Most managers believe that these “telecommuters” are more productive when they work from home.

There are many advantages to working at home. One of them is that you can create your own amazing work environment. Read on for 7 home office ideas to make you love coming to work.

1. Organization Matters

When working from home, it’s easy to make the mistake of mixing your home and work life. It makes sense to organize things so you can work effectively and efficiently. Take some time to plan your working environment so you can easily start and stop work.

Think of your workspace like the cockpit of an aircraft or the driving seat of a car. Everything you need frequently should be within easy reach. You’ll love not having to hunt for things when there’s a place for everything and everything is kept in its place.

There are many storage options on the market. Bins, drawers, files or boxes. The key is to plan your storage needs rather than investing in attractive boxes with no ideas how you will use them.

Start by de-cluttering. Don’t have piles of unnecessary stuff getting in the way. Keep it simple and functional.

2. Personalized Decor

Once you have the organization sorted you can turn to home office decor. Make your office space unique. Have a theme and follow it through the office furniture, decorating and soft furnishings. If you like color go bright, but if you like simplicity, go minimalist.

3. Light and Lighting

Typically, office environments rely on cheap but bright fluorescent lighting. While this provides lots of light it can also be unpleasant. In your home office you can use different lighting sources.

Make the most of any natural lighting while avoiding reflections on screens. Have uplighters and spotlights to provide sufficient light where you need it and ambient lighting for overall illumination.

4. Go Green

Having plants in your workspace can help maintain the right level of humidity for you. If you can keep a plant alive you are probably creating the right atmosphere to live and work in. Plants also process carbon dioxide and produce the oxygen you need to breathe.

5. Hygge your World

The Scandinavian concept of hygge is one that can be applied to your home office. Home office design ideas can incorporate cushions and rugs to create the feeling of comfort and coziness. Use textiles on the walls and natural materials in the furniture.

6. Your Perfect Chair

If your work involves sitting at a desk or table then choosing the right chair is vital. Try chairs out and if you have space have sitting options for different types of work. A desk chair may be great for computer work but an egg chair may be better for reading or listening to a client.

7. Art for Art’s Sake

Have some inspiring objects around you in your home office. Try small sculptures, pictures or your child’s latest finger painting. Find something that lifts your spirits.

Home Office Ideas

Whether you are running a home business or dividing your work between the office and home there’s every reason to make your home office a pleasant place to be. A pleasant work environment makes for greater productivity and wellbeing. Build on these ideas with home office ideas of your own.

For more home business ideas, click here.

Whether you’re a brand new mom or your kids are already getting big, you’re probably running from one thing to the next–without much time to stop and catch your breath.

Sometimes childcare isn’t enough. If you’re an ambitious entrepreneur and a mom, you’ll have to find time to balance both.

So is it possible? Can you handle a business while staying at home with the kids?

It might not be easy to build a successful home business while balancing household duties and growing families, but it’s definitely not impossible. Like any other business venture, you need to generate a business that’s both profitable and enjoyable–all while managing your home life.

Here are some tips for running a business with your hectic schedule as a mom–so you can have the best of both worlds.

10 Tips for Running a Successful Home Business As a Busy Mom

It’s challenging to build a successful home-based business–especially when you’ve got a house to manage and kids to raise. But with the right amount of planning, determination, and time management, you can be a great businesswoman and a mother. No sacrifices required.

Let’s take a look at some tips you can use to manage the responsibility of being a mom in business.

1. Make Your Home Into a Corporate Office

The first step towards building a business out of your home is taking it just as seriously as you would any other job.

When you work in a corporate office or you have an office job, you come into work every day with specific goals to accomplish before the end of the day. The same thing applies when you’re working from home.

Set aside a home office and treat it like your official workplace. This means having a desk, an office chair, a well-organized space, and no distractions.

Once you’re in this office, have a schedule and a to-do list just like you would in the workplace.

In this case, you’re not working for a boss–you are the boss. So you need to hold yourself accountable for being productive and sticking to the schedule.

2. It’s Okay to Say “No”

As a mom, you probably say no to your kids all the time: staying up late, eating more dessert, or playing an hour more of video games.

You have to take that same attitude to your business too. There might be more pressure to say yes all the time, but if you take on everything on your plate, you’ll be busy from morning until night.

You need time for your family–and you need time for yourself. Don’t be afraid to say no or push back meetings or ideas that you don’t have time for.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Set Boundaries

As a busy, working mother, you already have a lot on your plate. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries on what you’re willing and able to do.

If you have a spouse or significant other, talk to them about how to divide the load for household chores or childcare duties. Women do an average of 60% more household chores than men, and mothers are often expected to carry the brunt of the housework.

Even if you’re working from home, it’s still a job, and you still deserve to be taken seriously for your work.

Be sure that childcare and chores are divided evenly among those in the household–including spouses, significant others, older children, or other able family members.

4. Get Outside When You Can

While it’s important to have an at home office that you can count on, don’t keep yourself trapped indoors all day.

Not only is it bad for your health, but you’ll be more likely to get distracted or become stressed while you work. Try getting out of the house and working in a local coffee shop or the library. You could even attend business networking events when you can–especially if there are ones for working women or moms in your area.

Don’t isolate yourself indoors. Whenever you have the chance to get out of the house–leaving kids with a spouse, relative, or sitter of course–it can be good for you to work in a different environment.

5. Find an Online Community

Working at home alone can often feel isolating. Know that you’re not alone–and you’re not the only mom out there handling the responsibility of a business.

Try to connect with other moms in business and entrepreneurs online. You can search Linkedin, online forums, or social media for “working moms” or “business moms.”

Not only will this give you a network for support, but it also lets you meet and bond with other moms who have the same things on their plate. You can share tips, advice, resources, and inspiration with other women devoted to motherhood and their personal businesses.

6. Keep Yourself Healthy

It’s hard enough to balance childcare and a career–it’ll be a lot harder if you’re sick. Take care of yourself and try your best to stay healthy.

Exercise daily or a few times a week if you can, drink water throughout the day, get 8 hours of sleep a night, and make sure you’re eating well. You can try taking vitamins or supplements if you feel like you’re not getting enough from your diet–or if you find yourself feeling sluggish or tired.

When you do find yourself getting sick, don’t be afraid to take time off. Try to get a family member or a sitter to care for the kids, and keep your work minimal, if at all. You need the time and the rest to recover fully–so you can be back at work again as soon as possible.

7. Set Aside Time for Yourself

When you have kids, sometimes it can feel like it’s all about them. And it is! But it’s also about you.

Your health and well being are just as important. After all, you can’t take care of your family if you’re not taking good care of yourself.

If you push yourself too hard, you, your kids, and your work might suffer. When you’re working from home, it can feel like the work never stops.

Take at least one day off each week. On that day, don’t check your work email, don’t answer the phone, and try not to worry about what’s usually on your mind. If you want a break from childcare duties too, ask your partner or a relative–or hire a sitter to help you out on that day if you can.

8. Treat It Like a “Real” Business

When it comes to home businesses (especially for working moms) there’s a stigma of it not being “real” work.

Sometimes this myth comes from others, but oftentimes it’s perpetuated by home business owners themselves. The confidence needs to come from you. You run a real, serious, honest business–so treat it like one!

Invest in a professional looking office, website, and business structure to make sure that you’re not sabotaging your own success. Your business deserves to be taken seriously–and you do too.

You should also be investing in business tools, like time tracking programs, collaboration apps, and online postage. With Certified Mail Labels, you can skip the trip to the post office and send mail 24/7, every day of the year.

9. Draw a Line Between Your Jobs

For the sake of your kids as well as your business, it’s important to draw a line separating your work and motherhood.

Whenever you’re with your kids, be present and give them your full attention. They can usually tell if you’re checking your work email or making business calls while you’re supposed to be spending time with them.

In the same way, be present when you’ve dedicated time to work. During working hours, put all your attention towards the work at hand, and let people others know that you won’t be available for other things–just like in a regular office.

This promotes efficiency in both areas–business and motherhood–and it will keep your lives from bleeding into each other and affecting your relationship with your kids.

10. Fight Off the Feelings of Guilt

As a mom, you’re likely to deal with some kind of guilt. A quarter of working moms cry once a week–both from the stress and the guilt. These feelings came come from choosing to work instead of caring for your kids full time, taking a moment for yourself to relax, and just about everything in between.

It’s important that you try to avoid any feelings of guilt. Remind yourself that there’s nothing wrong with supporting your family–both financially and as a stay at home mother. You deserve to live the life that you want to live, even if it’s challenging.

Moms in business can do it all, but they’re also still human. You need to take some time to rest and recuperate.

Putting It All Together

Being a mom and running a business is like having two full-time jobs. It isn’t always easy to balance a successful home business with caring for your household.

But you’re not an ordinary mom–you’re a working mother. You deserve to have the best of both worlds without sacrificing your well being.

With the right mindset, good time management, and a lot of hard work, you can build a successful home based business without giving up the time to be a great mother too.

Looking for more tips and tricks to survive your time as a working mom? Check out more working from home advice on our blog!

A 2016 Gallop survey established that at least 43 percent of the American workforce spent some of their time working remotely. In 2012, the number was 39 percent.

Evidently, more Americans are embracing working from home or from the neighborhood bookstore or from whichever other remote location they fancy!

If you are looking to join the growing army of remote workers, good move. But before you leave your 30th-floor office or accept that remote position, here’s what you need to know about remote work.

1. There Are Potential Health Benefits

Work is the 3rd most common source of stress in America, only behind money and the uncertain future of the nation.

Are you among the 61 percent of Americans who feel work is doing them more harm than good? Of course, the most effective way to battle stress is to see a mental health specialist, but there are other helpful steps you can take, like opting for remote work.

Working from home eliminates some stress triggers, such as workplace conflicts and commuter traffic, from your life.

2. You Need a Hell Lot of Discipline

Working remotely improves productivity, according to a couple of studies.

Well, it’s true your productivity can rise, especially if you’re suffering from workplace stress. But it takes the discipline and dedication of a bee to get work done from your couch.

You must learn how to beat the temptation of stepping into the kitchen for a quick bite every now and then or of flipping through the channels to see what’s happening around the world.

You have to set a schedule and live by it. Otherwise, a whole day can easily go by and all you would have done is flick on your laptop and stare at the keyboard.

3. You’re Probably Not Going to Get Pay Stubs from Your Employer

Yes, remote work is beneficial to both employers and employees, but, from a legal standpoint, there is more than meets the eye. There are several laws involved when dealing with remote employees, which is why many employers opt to hire these workers as independent contractors.

That certainly means no pay stubs for you, which also means filing your taxes is likely going to get a lot harder.

But worry not! There are online platforms that enable you to create pay stubs so you can stay on top of your income.

4. Got Wonky Internet? Time to Switch Providers

The internet is the single largest enabler of remote work.

If your home connection is just about as reliable as a politician’s promise, it’s time to cut the cables and find a reliable provider. You don’t want to lose a connection when you are in the middle of an important Skype call with your boss, do you?

It’ll cost you more to get a good connection with a larger bandwidth. But that’s a worthwhile expense. It enables your ability to deliver and is still probably less expensive than the cost of commuting to an office.

Remote Work Could Take Your Productivity to the Next Level

Going remote has its pros and cons, but for the most part, it will give your productivity, career, and health a much-needed boost. And with the information we’ve provided here, you’re no doubt in a better position to make up your mind about working from home.

Need more work from home tips? We got you!

In today’s economy, more people are creating their own jobs than ever before. Freelance workers represent 35 percent of the current workforce.

While these numbers may shock the traditional nine-to-five, the reality of the situation is simple. Freelance work has never been more in demand.

Let’s take freelance writing, for example.

Blogging has become the go-to marketing strategy for businesses. As a result, freelance writers are now highly sought after.

The good news is, with a few key tools, anyone can become a freelance writer.

If the thought of earning money and avoiding the cubicle intrigues you, keep reading.

Today, we outline four proven strategies to build a steady income from freelance writing.

Set up a Portfolio Website

A writer without a website is like a surgeon without a scalpel.

Having an established website to display your portfolio is an essential tool for branding.

Think of it this way: if you want someone to buy your skills, then you need to show them why you are qualified. Describe what sets you apart from the competition, and why they should choose you.

Consider this: a recent study revealed that half of US millennials are taking part in freelancing work. For aspiring freelancers, this means your website must set you apart from the other writers.

Create a website that is eye-catching, easy to read, and displays your best work.

Settle on a Niche

Businesses seek writers who are specialists in their field. The more specialized your field, the more likely you are to be perceived as an expert and land high-paying clients.

Not exactly sure what your niche might be?

Start by reviewing your hobbies, resume, and previous work experience.

Let’s say you studied health and wellness in college, and spent the next five years working as an assistant to a naturopathic doctor. This is all relevant information that can act as the perfect foundation for your first blog post.

Read my tips for creating your first blog post to get started!

Target Repeat Customers

With freelance writing, the ultimate goal is to create stability – and get better at what you do.

The fact of the matter is, freelancing actually has the ability to create even more security than the traditional workforce.

Freelancers report that having a diverse portfolio of clients has created more stability as compared to having one traditional employer.

To do this, it’s essential to find repeat clients who are not just looking for one-time jobs. Instead, seek contract-based clientele that requires long-term projects.

Create a Strict Payment Schedule

The Freelancers Union recommends adhering to a strict payment schedule:

• 30 percent upfront
• 30 percent upon completion of first draft
• 40 percent upon completion of the project

This ensures you are being paid a percentage of the project even if the project is cancelled. It also helps distribute your payments evenly and budget more appropriately.

Be sure to have an established invoice system that is simple and always delivered in a timely matter.

Start here by creating a free pay stub template to get started!

Build a Rewarding Career in Freelance Writing

Do you feel that freelance writing could be the right fit for you?

Whether you’re looking to work remotely or from home, the only thing standing between you and your first writing gig is you.

Start small and read our best tips for freelance productivity to get started!

Let’s face it: some people aren’t built for the nine to five.

Maybe you don’t like waking up and battling through rush hour traffic. Maybe your eyes are constantly drawn to the clock and you don’t like being tied down to a schedule. Maybe you just don’t like putting on pants in the morning.

Fortunately, there’s no shortage of opportunities to work from home no matter your motivation. More Americans are working from home than ever before. In fact, 43 percent of employed Americans said they spent at least some time working remotely.

We live in an age where it’s possible to support yourself financially without ever leaving your bedroom. Are you ready to ditch the office life? Here are 10 ways to make money from home!

1. Online Surveys

Everyone has opinions. It’s easier than ever to find a platform to express your views, no matter how insane they might be. I’m looking at you, Twitter.

Have you ever thought of getting paid for providing your opinion? Online surveys are becoming a popular method to make money from home.

Research companies are always looking for insights from consumers. You can make a few dollars in a matter of minutes simply by answering a few questions online.

Sites like InboxDollars, The Opinion Panel and OnePoll offer daily surveys to a number of demographics. You can even sign up for Swagbucks, which gives you money for taking surveys and surfing the web.

You might not make a full income taking online surveys. But they are a fast and easy way to make some extra cash.

2. Fiverr

Have you ever done someone a favor for $5? That’s the essence behind Fiverr, an online marketplace where people sell their services to others.

Fiverr is full of people looking to pick up extra work. All you have to do is sign up, offer your services, and wait for someone to take your offer.

You can offer anything from writing to graphic design to simple chores. You only make $5 per task, but you can bundle multiple tasks to earn some extra money.

3. Freelancing

The digital world has made it easier than ever to connect with job opportunities all over the world. Case in point: freelancing.

Freelancing is a great option for people with a specific skillset. Writers, web designers, graphic designers, editors, and virtual assistants can all freelance to make money from home.

Freelancing lets you sell your services to a number of clients across the globe. You can find clients via freelance marketplaces like Upwork.

You can also create your own website or blog to attract clients. Struggling to attract people to your blog? Here are tips on getting more blog traffic.

4. Investing

You don’t have to work on Wall Street to get in on the stock market.

Nowadays, there are tons of opportunities to invest your money online. There are countless online brokers like E*TRADE that let you buy and sell stocks.

Not ready to invest big bucks? You can get started on Stash. This app lets you start making investments for as little as $5.

5. Airbnb

Forget about hard work. You can make money from home simply by renting out your extra rooms.

Airbnb is an online marketplace and hospitality service where people can rent short-term lodging. Many travelers use this service to find places to stay whether it’s a crowded apartment or private cottage getaway. You can make hundreds of dollars per night using Airbnb.

Want to make the most of your rental? Make sure your home is clean. You should also make sure your home’s exterior is appealing. Small things like using a Cookson garage door or cleaning your windows can make a big difference.

6. Sell Old Items

Let’s be honest. You don’t need a Nintendo 64, 10-year-old shoes, or that shoddy old bike.

You don’t have to throw all your old items away. There are plenty of services that let you sell your used items for money.

You can make a trip to a local thrift store to get rid of some old clothes. You can also use the online marketplace.

OfferUp is an application that lets you find and connect with local buyers. Simply post your item, add pictures and a description, and wait for buyers to message you.

7. Earn Credit Card Points

Look: I’m not saying you should open up a bunch of credit card accounts. But there’s no denying that credit cards offer juicy rewards to loyal members.

Find a credit card that offers monthly rewards or a sign-up bonus. Some credit cards also offer cash back on purchases or free travel points.

You can earn money while making your normal purchases. Just remember to pay off your card in time.

8. Drive

Do you like driving? You might as well get paid for it.

Ridesharing applications like Uber and Lyft are constantly on the prowl for reliable drivers. You can work flexible hours, meet new people, and make some extra money.

Yes, you have to actually get out of the house for this one. However, the average Uber drive makes $15.68 per hour before expenses. Not bad for a side gig.

9. Mystery Shopping

You can make money and get free items as a mystery shopper.

Mystery shopping lets you get out of the house and visit retail stores. Your team will give you instructions on where to shop and what to ask. You will follow up and give them feedback on your shopping experience.

It helps your wallet and businesses. The free retail items are an added bonus.

10. Focus Group

Are you passionate about the products you buy? You might want to join a focus group.

Focus groups let you give your feedback to companies on products and services. The companies use your opinion to fine-tune their product development.

Many focus groups are done face to face. There are some available in the online marketplace. You can make a trip to Find Focus Groups to get a list of available focus groups.

Make Money From Home

There’s no shortage of opportunities to work from home. Use this guide to explore and find the right job for you. You can avoid the office, make some serious money, and enjoy your newfound freedom.

Are you looking for more moneymaking tips? We can help. Check out more ways to earn money on our blog.