Working From Home Has Its Headaches Too
I am the envy of many of my friends. My career as a freelance writer conjures up images in their mind of a life of leisure, and calling my own shots. Some even envision future appearances on Oprah when I pen my long-awaited book.
Though I have been truly blessed, and I wouldn’t trade it, it’s not the Utopia that some of the “unenlightened” see it as!
Here are a few annoyances that I deal with on a daily basis, or at least more frequently than I’d like to under normal circumstances.
1. Constant interruptions. Being at home most days means I’m pretty accessible to family, friends, telemarketers, and collectors. So that means I’m constantly answering calls, or screening calls, or serving as Ann Landers to my friends, or being held hostage by a chatty caller, or looking up on the Internet that must-have anti-wrinkle cream that my mom didn’t write down from yesterday’s Dr. Oz Show. What part of “working” from home is it that most folks don’t understand?
2. Computer mishaps. Houston, we have a problem. Working from home with no “in house” technical department to trouble shoot problems, means that many times I spend an eternity on the phone with off-site tech support, usually with someone from Timbuktu with a thick accent and a limited vocabulary. To quote a popular commercial, “Can you hear me now?”
3. Maintaining both of my “bottom lines.” In addition to being attentive to my financial “bottom line”, I also have to keep a watchful eye on my other “assets”.
As any woman will attest, having a sedentary type position can really make it more challenging to keep the weight off. Especially if you’re some what exercise adverse as I am. And you better believe that an attractive image is just as important to a home-based entrepreneur as it is for corporate professionals.
4. Limited perks. Sure I get to check out the cute construction workers on my block from my corner office window, and I can eat chocolates and wear my bunny slippers all day. But I’m never gonna’ get recognized for perfect attendance, employee of the month, or a Christmas bonus.
So even though the grass may be “greener on the other side”, just remember that you still have to water it.
This is a guest post by Jennifer Brown Banks, a veteran freelance writer and pro blogger. She holds a B.A. in Business Management. Visit her site @ http://penandprosper.blogspot.com/
Andrew G. Rosen
Reader Comments (8)
You're so right! Thanks for your comment today. :-)
I wouldn't have it any other way either, BUT if you believe you are ready to head home and be a full-timer, be prepared to work. If not, you'll be back at the office with your co-workers.
There is nothing quite like calling your own shots and being in control. Make sure you keep it.
Steve
www.SGSWrite.com\blog
Yes, working from home has it's advantages and disadvantages but it's funny how you don't really feel 'alone' when you're online! You can 'meet' some really interesting folks -- like fellow bloggers. ;0)
Amy
Great post.
Clara.
I totally agree--it's hard work, no doubt! But, as they say, anything worth having typically is! Always a pleasure connecting with you. Let's do this again.;-)
So sorry to hear about your tech mishaps. But, I'm sure you'll be able to bounce back with your wit and resilience! Yep, I dig meeting fellow bloggers on line as well...interesting, very interesting.
KEEP GOING GIRL!!
Thanks for stopping by. As I stated previously, I love it! But, don't get it twisted; It's not all glamour, it's gritty too. Cash flow crises, no benefits, and hard work. Anyhow, I'm sure you can relate too.;-)
Have an awesome week! And pray with me that I'll be able to sustain this lifestyle in this economy .;-)