Are you about to take the plunge, quit your day job and begin working from home? If you are, you’re possibly about to experience one of the most enjoyable times of your life. The freedom and control that working at home affords you is utter luxury if you’re accustomed to working for an employer. Do you feel in control? If not, perhaps you need to put your personal mark on your new territory – your home office!

Not everyone has the luxury of a spare room they can turn into an office, but whether you are taking over the guest room or using the back of your garage, it’s important to make it your own. There are three good reasons for this:

• It’s important to have a defined work area so that when you are in that space, you are working, and not doing anything else. When working at home you’ll often need discipline to ensure you spend sufficient time working. Having a defined work area will help your productivity and you’ll be less likely to become distracted.
• Personalising your work area is psychologically beneficial! It becomes a reminder that you are in control now – this is your space and your business!
• Feeling professional and well organised will help you work in a professional and organised manner. What better way to begin than with a well set out and pleasant looking office space.

Wherever your home office is situated, try to give your space a makeover that is practical, but also one you will enjoy daily. Consider:

• Repainting the room
• Placing your favourite artwork or framed certificates on walls
• Using physical items relating to your business creatively
• Selecting a funky fun phone handset
• Purchasing new or second hand furniture that is ideal for your work
• Labelling filing draws or shelves for that feeling of efficiency
• Loading up a book shelf with relevant factual publications
• Buying a trendy magazine rack to store your industry publications
• Creating your own motivational sign to remind you of your goal

Working from your home office will be the beginning of a new lifestyle for you and your family. Decorating your home office space should be particularly enjoyable. It’s symbolic of the changes you are about to experience – out with the old and in with the new! All the painting and shifting furniture might be physically taxing but it’s likely to give your spirits a significant lift!