I have to agree that I often feel like I have to justify what I do and even after 2.5 years still need to explain to family and friends that I do work! It’s easier to usually just tell people I work for myself in event management (one of the industries I was in and still provide support for). However, other mum’s (especially self employed ones) understand what it takes at least.

The only thing I think is harder about working from home than going to work is the discipline not to work, especially nights and weekends. And making and answering phone calls with little ones around but I just don’t offer that kind of service and I wait until my son is sleeping to make calls to clients, etc.

Also, I don’t know where you guys find the time to do all the extra stuff you do! Even though I have always considered myself extremely organised I never seem to have time to do any additional stuff like researching and developing my business, etc. (was actually looking into search engine optimisation & thought I’d see who comes up in google searches for virtual assistants and found you!) but I think this is more attributed to family life than being self employed.

I too started up when I was about 30+ weeks pregnant with my first child and am currently pregnant with my second child and there’s no way I will ever go back to working for someone else. We are currently building our house with a custom home office (with a corner play area for new baby) and I can’t wait!

And I agree, I get far more done at home even with the distractions then I would in an office…. And thank goodness for ACS!

I also make it quite clear what I can do and can’t (don’t answer phone calls with kids at home for example). Plus I have particular days that the kids are in day care all day and I try to make the most of those days. If they have urgent work to do and the kids are at home, then I try my best but they are all very aware of those “good working days” and then the days that aren’t so good for working.

My problem is more family – they don’t understand why I’m working at home and for myself and if I must work – why don’t I get an office job for a couple of days to get me out of the house.

Time management is very difficult with little ones and I find I’m distracted easily (house always a mess) but when they are home I try not to work (besides for sneaking in emails here and there). LOL

I will never go back to a corporate job – I love what I do and the industry I’m now a part of. This is me forever!!

I also think it takes a certain kind to what to work from home -you need commitment and a lot of passion, determination and motivation to be able to do it and stick to it. For some an office job is easier – they come home and work is left at work.

See.. I’m not the only one who thinks like this.