There are plenty of problems you encounter when you work from home. I want to make sure that you understand them and how to overcome them if you choose to work this way.



1. Lack of support from your Managers.

If you're telecommuting rather than having your own separate business you may find that you get a lot less support from your actual manager. This is probably because a manager is not seeing you all the time -- out of sight out of mind.

The Solution: Have regularly scheduled meetings via teleconference or video conference. Especially in the beginning when you are just getting started and getting used to work styles. It also helps keep a list of your accomplishments so your Manager can realize all the good work you're doing.

2. Your feelings of isolation

Long hours working from your work at home office can be lonely. It's important for you realize the type of person you are, are you an introvert or an extrovert? Do you need to be around a lot of people to get energized? It's important that you realize this and take appropriate action.

The Solution: If you're an extrovert, ensure that you have lots of people contact in your day. Schedule video conferences or telephone calls to keep in touch with the office and your clients. You can also take your home office on the road by working from your local coffee shop or library. If your coffee shop provides an internet connection that's even better.

3. Balancing your life.

Often when you get into a work from home environment it becomes difficult to separate your personal time from your business time. Because your computer is only a few steps away you always have time for one more work email or one last moment refining your project. Do you feel guilty about performing household chores during your work hours?

The Solution: That's where it's important to schedule specific times for work and personal chores so they don't overlap. You also need to take into account the needs of your family if you're a stay at home mom or dad. Keep yourself organized and allow for interruptions that come with raising children. It can be done with some careful planning.

5. Your Communication problems.

I'm not talking about computer problems here! I'm talking about mis-communication problems with your clients or your colleagues. Because you're not right in front of them face-to-face, you don't have the luxury of being able to read body language or other non-verbal cues. So, less face-to-face time leads to a lot of assumptions.

The Solution: Once again you should schedule frequent meetings with clients and colleagues to keep in touch.

6. Your stress.

Work from home stress usually involves not having balance as far as work and family life. It is usually a nagging feeling that you could be doing more. For example you feel like working when you are with your family and you feel like being with your family when you are working.

The Solution: Stick to a regular schedule of predefined work hours and try to be pretty strict with this arrangement. If you do it right you should be able to create a balance with work and family life.

So, there you have it. These are only some of the problems you'll encounter. Issues regarding stress, support, life balance, and isolation issues can be overcome with careful planning and a good attitude!