I have been working from home (or in freedom, since I also work while we travel) for almost a decade now. I can say that it is one of the best decisions I have made since I get to be hands on with my family and, at the same time, earn enough to support our needs at home.

But, days do not always go as planned. Although I already have a system in place that allows me to work AND take care of my family and our home (we don’t have househelp) while still giving myself my much needed me-time, there are still challenges that come with working from the comfort of your home–such as distractions that can suck the time out of my day. Distractions equal low productivity, which is something you cannot afford when you work from home.

Which is why as a work-from-home business owner, we all need a strategy to stay focused and productive. Globe myBusiness shares four tips to keep you productive while you work from home:

• Define your workspace. When you’re in an office, you know instinctively that it’s a place of business, and that the entire area is designed specifically for the purpose of working.  You need to designate a place at home for this same purpose – a space that will give you the maximum focus for managing your company.  It doesn’t have to be an elaborate office, but it should at least be conducive for work.  Have a desk and a comfortable chair, at least.  While a chair isn’t as comfy as your couch (or God forbid, your bed), it’s a much better place to stay focused.  It also helps you stay organized if you have specific spaces for paperwork, devices, and other materials only related to business.
• Work according to a schedule. Because you make the rules, this doesn’t have to be a 9-to-5 thing.  But to stay on track, you should at least come up with a daily plan of action and stick to it.  Setting deadlines and clear goals will help you stay productive through distractions, and teaches you to prioritize important tasks so they don’t overwhelm you.
• Allow yourself to take breaks. You’re passionate for growing your business, and that’s great.  But you might end up exhausting yourself – so prevent burnout by taking breaks throughout the day.  Remember to do things you enjoy, and keep yourself healthy.  Your mind and body – and your business – will surely thank you. Every now and then, remember to treat yourself to longer breaks as well for all the hard work!
• Get the right gear. Every job requires tools, and these are usually specific to your business.  You know better than anyone what gear you should always have on hand – be it a laptop, office supplies, or even equipment and machinery.  Make sure they’re close by so you don’t have to leave the room often, and make sure you always have an ample supply – that way, you won’t have to worry about skipping work to buy materials ever again. (Read: 5 Tools for Working From Home Successfully)

For more business tips and exclusive invites to Globe myBusiness events, visit their website and sign-up to Globe myBizKit.