Comments on How to Set Up a Home Office

I return calls only three times during the working day, using a portable phone. I use the time I am waiting to reach my party to stand up and walk my office to file, sort papers, or pull documents needed for my next project.

Make a real distinction between the two. I do not answer my "home" phone while at work, and I do not go from my office space to my leisure space often. It really does help me separate. And, turn the computer off at the end of the day!

In my home office, on one phone line, I have a home phone number AND a "smart ring" number which each ring differently, so that I can tell if it's a client calling. Check your phone service to see if this is available. If you already have an established office phone number, you can have that number "remote call forwarded" to your new "smart ring" number and reduce your costs by losing one phone line.

If at all possible, work away from the usual rooms in your house. This sets the mind right - you must go to work - not shuffle around the house.

During the good weather, I set up my office outdoors in 5 minutes. I use the patio table and umbrella and wheel out an extra office chair from the garage. I have a laptop, which makes this easy. I love it and don't feel "cooped in" when it's nice outside.

In my home office, on one phone line, I have a home phone number AND a "smart ring" number which each ring differently, so that I can tell if it's a client calling. Check your phone service to see if this is available. If you already have an established office phone number, you can have that number "remote call forwarded" to your new "smart ring" number and reduce your costs by losing one phone line.

Have a professional office decor - like you'd have at a job. Hang up degrees, motivational posters and certificates. This will help when tough times come. Rejoice in the good times!!

Make sure that you have enough filing cabinets and shelving. Don't skimp on storage. If you do run out of space, the beginning of your being disorganized begins.

Make a real distinction between the two. I do not answer my "home" phone while at work, and I do not go from my office space to my leisure space often. It really does help me separate. And, turn the computer off at the end of the day!