Keeping Work And Family Separate

You don't have to be a miracle worker to keep family and business separate. Here are some simple tips to keep the two from crossing over:

• Close the door to your office while you're working. This is a sign to family members not to bother you.
• Close the door to your office when you've finished working for the day. This will keep you from rushing into your office at all hours of the night.
• Don't let your children answer your business phone. You may think it's cute; customers won't
• Make sure children know you are not o be bothered while you're "at the office."
• Don't answer your business phone after hours. Your recorded answering message should state your business hours.
• Don't do household chores during business hours.
• Schedule short breaks in your workday.

Excerpted from Starting a Home-based Business