Organizing

One of the most important things in working a home based business is making sure you are organized. Not only your office, but organizing your time to be the most productive. Set aside a place for you to have your office. Whether it's a spare bedroom, an office or just a part of your closet, you'll need a place to store your records and business related stuff.

Simple office supplies
Stapler, pens, calendar, notebook binder, telephone, folders, and a box to house folders. Make sure you keep all receipts for anything you purchase for you business. Make a folder marked "Expenses" and put every expense receipt in it. This will make your record keeping easier.

My Palm really helps me to stay organized. Not only does it keep all my phone numbers handy, I also use it to track and plan my parties, booths, fairs, and other events. There is even software available to keep track of inventory, sales and time keeping.

Managing time is probably the most critical in running your own home-based business. Whether you sell products from home or manage a variety of affiliates, keeping focused is another key to being successful.

For some, designating specific "office hours" allow them to have "work" time and "off" time. If you children are in school, make your office hours the time they are in school to make the most of the time they are away. Decide how much and when you want to work and try to stick to it. Be flexible. You may have to make some modifications in the beginning. Once you get it right, you will know it.

Make lists! I find that when I make task lists, I get more done than if I try to remember all that I have to do. This is where my PDA comes in. It has a great "Things to do" program that allows you to list the things you need to do in an order of priority. As you do them, you get to check them off, just like the paper version, only more versatile.