Russ Dalbey's Blog

Have you ever wished to be marooned on a deserted island? Just want to get away from everything and everyone for a while?

It’s not an uncommon idea, considering how hectic work and life can be these days. But it’s possible to have too much of a good thing, even peace and quiet. Think about how Tom Hanks started talking to a volleyball he named "Wilson" in the movie Castaway.

If you run your business out of your home, you probably know about isolation. There isn’t a co-worker in the next office to celebrate your successes with, or someone from whom to get feedback on ideas.

Working for yourself is a fantastic career option, but it can present the issue of working all alone. So how do you keep from feeling like you are playing on a team of one with no cheering section?  I’ve asked around with some successful entrepreneurs; these are their hints to stay in touch with "the real world."

* Try to schedule regular out-of-the-office meetings to break up your routine. If you can’t get out of the office for a meeting, conference calls work, too.

* Reach out and connect with a mentor for support as often as possible, preferably someone knows your business or industry. This relationship provides valuable brainstorming assistance as well as informed, objective opinions.

* Don’t neglect to take short breaks. If you’re like me, you sometimes get so focused on your tasks that you forget to change positions or stretch to refresh both your body and mind.

* Join associations or organizations representing your field or related to your field and attend their meetings and functions as often as you can. This is not only great for your mental health, but can also provide excellent networking opportunities to gain potential clients.

* Mix it up. Schedule a day of the week where you work out of the office. Many libraries, bookstores, coffee houses – even some restaurants – have Internet access. Bring your paperwork or laptop along and take your office with you.

* Stay busy! Try to be very productive for a shorter period of time, rather than spending a lot of time alone but accomplishing very little. If you’re focused on your work, the less likely you’ll feel isolated.

If you use follow these suggestions for conducting your home-based business, you’ll enjoy your work much more. And you’ll be much less likely to start conversations with inanimate objects.

Warmly,

Russ
Founder of Winning In The Cash Flow Business
Dalbey Education Institute

Founder of Winning in the Cash Flow Business