Avoiding "overload" When Working From Home

When you make the decision to work from home, several things may cross your
mind: Will I be able to find work? Will I be able to keep the kids busy and
quiet while I work? Will I be able to get it all done? Many people love the
flexibility of working from home, but often forget the one drawback: leaving
the work at the office when you get home.

Often, people don't get started working at home the correct way, and end up
spending more time "fixing things", instead of working. This can get
stressful, and then people give up instead of working through it. Get
organized from the beginning, using a calendar, lists, and set up a filling
system that works for you.

If you're doing freelance work, start out with a couple clients and develop
your best routine that works for you within their deadlines. If you get to
set the deadline, always build in a cushion. If you can get something done
in two days, tell them you will have it done in three, just in case
something comes up (which quite often does). This gives you some breathing
room and makes you look better when you get things done sooner, instead of
always asking for an extension.

Keeping track of your assignments is not only professional, it's crucial.
Develop a database that helps you keep track of the important information
such as:

. Client's name
. Address
. Phone numbers/fax
. E-mail address
. Project
. Assigned/accepted date
. Due date
. Date completed
. Notes

There are many wonderful freeware organizational software programs out there
that can keep your stress level down.

Having all this information will help you keep forgetting the important
deadlines and will also help you keep from over committing yourself. It's so
easy to just get in the habit of saying, "Yes, I can do that" when you need
the business, but it's just as important to know when you should say, "No,
but maybe I can do that for you next week? Is that possible?" Many times,
the client can be flexible, especially if you've been reliable in the past.

Don't forget the most important way to avoid overload and burn
out: Play time. Allow yourself to take breaks during the day, spend time
playing with your kids or even dinner out with your spouse. Enjoy a nice hot
cup of coffee or tea and curl up with a good book. You'll be amazed at how
much more productive you will be after the break.

About The Author: Nell Taliercio, the Telecommuting Answer Lady, owns
http://www.telecommutingmoms.com where you can locate legitimate work at
home jobs and practical advice to start your work at home career tomorrow!