Tip of the Day: How to Work from Home Without Losing Your Sanity

Small business owners often work from the comfort of their homes—it’s a dream come true for many. But does working in sweatpants come with its own set of issues? For some, loneliness and never-ending workdays can undermine the benefits of working from home.

Take breaks. Sure, it’s easier said than done, but it’s important to step away from the hustle and bustle of business. Walk your dog, meet friends for lunch, weed your garden—whatever you chose, just stick to it and remember to breathe.

Share space. Libraries are great, but often too quiet, and coffee shops are convenient but noisy. A shared workspace could be another option. Surround yourself with like-minded professionals to get the company you crave, without dealing with shushing librarians or the scent of steaming lattes.

Time’s up. Chose a stopping point. Yes, things will come up and there will be circumstances that cause you to work over, but you should have set hours—and you need to keep them.

Working from home can be wonderful, but it’s vital that you recognize when you’ve lost what most of us work at home for: a better work/life balance and flexibility.