Office Inside the Home - How to Run a Successful Business and Family Inside Your Home

Working from home sounds ideal - especially when you're a parent.  Lines between work and home can become blurred as famiy demands and multiple schedules encroach on your business obligations.  Here are some boundaries to set to help separate your work life from your personal life.

1. Office area - Make sure you have a physical area separated in your home to be your office.  Make sure to keep distractions (like TV) out of this space.  If you have chldren at home, explain to them in age-appropriate terms when your "open door" time is - when they can come in and ask you questions.
2. Keep a schedule - Set a specific period of time each day that will solely be dedicated to work.  Be flexible, but stick to your schedule.  Post on your office door your "work" and "open" times are so your family is clear of your schedule.
3. Separate home and business communications - Keep a separate phone line and voice mail for your business.  Don't answer it after hours.
4. Don't mix personal activities with business - During your scheduled work time...WORK.  At the end of every day, plan the next day, including work and personal time.  Try to keep all business-related activities lumped together so you can keep the work mindset intact.
5. Know your limits - Don't overload yourself/your time.  Make sure to communicate everything with your family especially your busy/crunch times.  Post any temporary schedules on your door so everyone is informed.
6. Make time for yourself - Don't lose yourself in work.  Make time for exercise, meditation or just something fun.  You must take care of yourself to be a valuable asset to your clients.

Set these boundaries and do not compromise!  When you give an inch from your work life, your personal life will take a mile.  Be kind, be firm, but stick to your guns.  You will be a better parent, spouse and business person.