Many people are making the switch from office to home. That is, more people are choosing to work out of their home, thereby also making it their office. And it seems like there are several opportunities for IT professionals to do work out of their home. I, personally, have several friends/co-workers who have set up shop out of their home and seem quite content/successful.

I made the change about two years ago when I had the opportunity to do what I did in an office downtown, out of my home, instead. Now after doing it for two years I’m still happy I made the change, but I have come to see that there are some major downfalls to doing so.

One of the most difficult things for me about working out of the home is remaining diligent and keeping up my work habits. And this is where procrastination comes into play. It’s a lot easier to put work-related tasks off when there are other things around the home that could be taken care of.

So here are a few points you can keep in mind or follow if you are considering or have already made the decision to make your home your office as well.

1. Make a list of things to do and follow it. I find this especially helpful. I have a list of work related tasks that I must complete each week and I make sure that they are done. Know exactly what you need to accomplish each day or week.
2. Plan your day. Obviously working from home gives you more flexibility when it comes to the exact times during the day that you do work. Instead of doing a 9-5 day, you may choose to work in the mornings and late afternoons. In any case, you should have some idea as to how you plan to manage your time.
3. Consider your workspace. I found it extremely helpful to convert a room into an actual office space. I find the atmosphere to be much more motivating. This is the room where I know work will take place!!
4. Stay in touch with the outside world. As I soon found out, one of the downfalls of working from home is the lack of social interaction. So make sure you stay in touch with the office, co-workers, clients, and even friends.
5. Avoid procrastination. Another downfall to a home office is there is no one watching over your shoulder and no one to kick you in the pants when you are on the unproductive side. Avoid putting things off. In the end, it can lead to some terrible work habits and make work-related tasks feel like chores.

[Diana Huggins]