The Daily Exhorter

Makes a (wo)-man healthy, wealthy and wise, right? Of course! That’s what one of the secrets is of the work at home life. You have to not only be super-organized (ha!), but you have to get up early in order to get things done. It’s called being productive.

For instance, it’s 4:30 right now and I’m up working on this post and a few other things that I need to do to jump-start my day. It’s quiet in the house, except for the hum of the washing machine, and I’m able to focus and concentrate on my work. Although it IS a challenge to get up this early, it’s worth it because I can get so much done by the time my family wakes up.

Being productive in your home business requires focus and discipline – - and lots of it! You don’t have anyone standing over you directing your daily routine. You have to meet your own deadlines, generate your own emails and follow-up with tasks and projects that you may have going on.

Here are three things that I’ve learned in my solo-years that can possibly help you to be productive in your home-based lifestyle:

1. Go to bed on time. Whatever schedule you keep, however insane it may be, rest is crucial. The mind and the body do not function adequately without proper rest. If you treat it right, it will reap bountiful results for you.

2. Pace yourself. Work on one thing or project at a time and give it your full attention. Do a good job on it. It’s so tempting to want to go from one thing to another, but that’s counter-productive. It will slow you down and nothing gets your undivided attention.

3. No. Sometimes that all you need to articulate. That means no to phone distractions, social distractions and even kid interference. If you’re going to finish your work, meet your deadlines and get that new client, you have to focus on what you’re doing. Saying no is sometimes not only necessary but it’s critical.

Don’t fret over the small things and keep things in perspective. Working from home is not hard but you do have to a strong mental fortitude to get things done. Keep a list or journal of your “to-do’s”, goals and action items that you need. Work on them until the goal is met. What you will have in the end is a pretty darn good feeling at having accomplished something and a much tougher stand towards actually getting things done.

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