This week I got a call from someone who indicated that he was doing everything that I and other work-at-home coaches had suggested he do to find a work-at-home job, but so far he wasn't getting results. I could hear the frustration in his voice, and it brought me back to when I struggled to work-at-home and met with frustration and disappointment as well. Indeed, frustration and disappointment are two of the biggest hurdles struggling work-at-home wannabes face. But there are some things you can do to help deal with the challenges in trying to work-at-home.

1) Have realistic expectations: We live in a a society focused on instant gratification, but the odds of deciding to work at home today and actually doing it tomorrow are slim. Depending on what you choose to do, it can take 6 months to 2 years to create a work-at-home income. Not only do you need to be realistic about the time frame in reaching work-at-home success, but you also need to choose realistic methods. People don't pay the mortgage doing surveys or reading email, neither do they simply sign up for something and make money. Working at home takes work. Lots of it!

2) Do your research: The best way to develop a realistic expectation related to working at home is to educate yourself about telecommuting and home business. Research will teach you what it takes and how long it takes to really work at home, help you avoid scams, and keep you focused on the right types of activities.

3) Look for opportunities that fit your skills and interests: Too many people look for the fast, quick buck and end up wasting time and money as these opportunities almost always turn out to be scams or deceptive schemes. Instead, make a list of all your skills, experiences, interests and hobbies, and search for jobs or home business ideas that fit what you know how to do. You're more likely to be successful pursuing your passion than the money.

4) Evaluate your efforts: If you aren't getting results from a job search, have someone look over your resume, and make sure you are qualified to do the job. If you are trying to build a home business, evaluate your marketing methods to see what's not working.

5) Keep on keeping on: I haven't met anyone that hasn't spent a great deal of time and effort to work at home. The one thing that separates them from others who aren't successful is that they never gave up. They kept on learning about working at home, searching and applying for the right opportunities, and evaluating their efforts until they finally reach their goal.

There is a saying about the only certainties in life are taxes and death. In the work-at-home world, there are some certainties as well and those are that you'll be frustrated and disappointed. But these are temporary if you are able to manage the difficult times and forge ahead towards your goal.