Working from home – the good, the bad and the boundaries

The reality

Working from home is an appealing idea for many of us. Whether you have a seasoned VA business or are in the early stages of setting one up, it is easy to get attracted by the idea of working comfortably at home, setting your own hours, and choosing your own pay. Achieving a better balance between work and home life is, let us face it, the biggest attraction for many.

But working from home is not always a bed of roses. It has its positives and negatives. However, what one person sees as a “good” thing, another person will see as a “bad” thing.

The Good

1. Flexibility and convenience The ability to choose your own hours and take on only the work you love is a massive draw. Removing the office commute saves time and energy that you can reinvest into your business or your family.

2. Controlled environment Your home is naturally set up to your tastes. You can create a relaxing and creative space that suits your working style rather than being forced into a bland corporate cubicle.

3. Increased productivity In a controlled home environment, you are less likely to suffer from the constant interruptions found in an office. This makes it easier to get focused and motivated on the task at hand.

4. Financial savings Working from home is a financially sound decision. You save money on commuting, parking, expensive city lunches, and often childcare costs.

5. Healthier lifestyle You can work to your natural rhythms. This lowered pressure allows for reduced anxiety and better eating habits. You have easy access to your own kitchen and are not pressured to copy colleagues who power through lunchbreaks on nothing but a protein bar.

The Bad

1. Lack of boundaries from others Friends and family often translate working from home as being always available. This leads to interrupted hours and pleas for your time. Often, this happens because others do not take your work seriously or because you have failed to set firm boundaries from the start.

2. The need for self discipline You must be a self starter. There is no manager watching you. If you are not naturally determined to get the work done, your business will fail.

3. Isolation and loneliness Working alone with no adult interaction can be tough. You do not have office camaraderie to boost you. You must proactively build a support network and look for community outside your four walls to stay supported.

4. The inability to switch off Without a physical change in environment, it can feel like you never escape work. This is why having a dedicated office space is vital. You need to be able to shut the door at the end of the day to separate your professional and personal life.  This has always been the hardest thing for me.

5. Potential for disorganisation It is easy to let standards slip when nobody is looking over your shoulder. If you are not naturally organised, your workspace can quickly become a dumping ground. Implement a tidy desk policy and keep family clutter out of your professional zone.

Knowing the good and bad points upfront enables you to get a plan in place to counteract the negatives and enjoy the positives. If you need help structuring your business for success, the VA Momentum Course provides the framework you need to stay disciplined and professional.

What are your experiences of working from home? Do you agree with these points? Share your thoughts in the comments below.