Operating an online business like Smokingthings can be a rewarding pursuit, but it also takes a high level of self-discipline. Because a lot of online businesses operate from a person’s home, it can be easy to let distractions take over and ruin the productiveness of the workday. However, it is important that you take steps to set up a home office that you can work efficiently in, and this is done by minimizing distractions, making a dedicated workspace and creating an inventory space.
Minimize Distractions
It can be easy to let distractions creep in when working at home.
Family members may want to talk, and your favorite television program may be
calling your name. It is important that you lock yourself away to a certain
extent so that you can focus on the task at hand. Make sure that other people
in your home understand that you have set working hours. While you certainly
need to take breaks to avoid burnout, you do not want to let the breaks last
too long. Taking a quick walk to the mailbox or jogging around the house can
energize you enough to get through an afternoon of work.
Make a Dedicated Workspace
Working from the couch may
work for some people, but the vast majority will be more productive at a table
or desk. Try to choose a corner of a room, no matter how small, to dedicate to
your work. You should only use that area during your dedicated work hours so
that you can separate it from relaxation space in your mind. Having somewhere
to keep your work papers can also help minimize clutter throughout the rest of
your house, as you will not have invoices and statements lying in random
locations.
Create an Inventory Space
If you sell a physical
product online, you will need somewhere to store your inventory. This can be a spare closet or dry
location in the garage. You should find an area that is easily accessible so
that you can check on your stock at periodic intervals.
While it can be a challenge
to stay productive at home, setting up your office in your home can have a
number of benefits. You cut out your commute time every morning and evening,
and this can help you spend more time with your family. While it is important
to have set hours, you have more flexibility with what they can be.
