One of the not-so-fun things about being an employee is that there is often someone looking over your shoulder. Your employer may even give annual performance reviews.
It has been about a decade since I last had a boss. I’ve worked for myself, and I am actually tougher on myself than any employer I ever had.
It can be challenging for those just starting out with their own business to complete all their daily tasks. Many home business owners have difficulty with time management. I often suggest that my team members write out a work schedule to help them accomplish everything each day, week or month.
I recently read an article that basically said the same thing, but the terminology they used was better than mine. In the article, the home business owner suggested that we follow a routine each day. Just getting started each day (going “to work”) can be difficult for some. If we have a regular routine, however, it is less challenging.
I never thought about it before I read the article, but I have a routine that I follow nearly every work day. My morning routine is about the same as if I was working a “job.” I am an early riser and get up and have breakfast with my husband while we catch up on the TV news. I then shower and get dressed. I don’t wear heels and a dress, but I dress neatly, fix my hair and wear makeup.
My husband and I then go to our local mall to walk for 30 minutes. This time together with no phones, no email or other interruptions is physically good for us; and it is our “alone time” when we discuss various topics and connect. It is a good way to start the day.
We arrive home at about 8 AM, and it is time for me to “go to work.” I go to my home office, and my work routine begins. I read and respond to my email first. I write a blog five days a week after processing my email. When I have new team members who need training, I schedule training sessions for late morning if it works for them.
I do not “advertise” my business very much, but I participate quite a bit on forums and network marketing websites. I’ve been in my current business over two years and have accumulated a variety of networking sites that are good places to “brand myself.” I also enjoy visiting and sharing information with other members on these sites. The forum members learn from each other and help one another promote their businesses.
I spend time daily on three sites. I visit a few others less frequently, a couple times a week. My business is network marketing, so I must be flexible. I sometimes receive calls from prospects and team members. I handle the calls and return to my routine. I won’t go through my entire day, because I’m sure you get the idea.
Home business owners who are disorganized and cannot manage their time are unlikely to be successful. Self-motivation is also required since there is no boss looking over their shoulder to be sure they are working. Working a home business is not for everyone, but for those of us who are able to “be their own boss,” the rewards are many.
Comments
I like this post Julie. I will share on facebook
Excellent Angela and routine is the answer to being successful. Thanks for the great advice.
Great advice, Julie. One of the most difficult things about working at home is fighting the constant interruptions and distractions that take you off track. Thanks for sharing.
I haven't been employed by anybody in about 16 years. In my last couple of years I really wasn't a good employee because I knew I would be leaving soon. The ole boss thing was really getting to me. So happy to be away from the employee days.
Thank you all for the great feedback.
Julie,
I love your post :) I admit I'm disorganized and I have to fight that every single day of my life. I started my routine though and making my self do the same thing over and over for 30 days and now it's not so much of a routine to me as it is a habit.
Isn't it funny it's hard for us to stick to a routine but not a habit? lol. But the main lesson I have learned in 13 years of this bliss called self employment is you do what you have to do.
Thank you for a wonderful post!
Susan
Excellent advice! Sharing for you Julie!
Excellent post Julie. Time management is key for success. Shared your post for more to see.
Excellent article Julie. You must plan your day and then stick to the plan. Thanks for sharing this valuable information. Liked and Shared.