Working at home is very convenient for me.  I can work on my own time schedule; I don't have to worry about my kids, I don't spend for fare to go to the office, traffic, food, clothes to wear and more things that you can consider in going to a regular job.  I can check my kids from time-to-time, I can walk with them to school, prepare their things, help them with their homework, and I can have dinner with them.

In the convenient environment of my home, my computer is very close to my bed.  Of course, there were times that I feel like lying down and sleep more.  Being sleepy has been a challenge for me especially when it is Monday.  Sunday is the busiest day of the week for me because of some church duties.  For sure, you know the feeling of "It's Monday again," right?

So then, I looked for ways to mood myself in working just like when I was in a regular office.  First, I prepare for work:  I dress up and put a little makeup.  I make sure that I dress appropriately and I look like a professional.  I'm having online video English classes so the look is very important.  However, I still make sure that I dress appropriately even if I don't have students.  This makes my mood be "at work mode."

Second, I still have this habit of making a cup of coffee or tea and cleaning my desk an hour before my working time.  Although, I'm at home I set the alarm on my phone for work time.  It is like it, "log in" time for me.  This is important so that I won't be late for work and to manage my time well too.

I also play my favorite music playlist while I work, so I can think well and keep myself in the work mode whenever I'm waiting for my students or writing.  It is advisable to have a lively playlist depending on the genre that you are listening.  I usually listen to Christian rock bands or to worship songs.

I also take some short breaks like 5 to15 minutes, to rest my eyes, eat a little, or make another cup of coffee or tea.  It is also a short break to check my Facebook, email, chat with friends and read some motivational quotes or Bible verse to keep myself motivated.  Even if my working station is just five steps to my bed, I keep this "work mode" habit because this is where I earn money with the convenient of my home.

About the Contributor:  This is an opinion by a work-at-home mom about home-based work shared to us in our blog.