Anyone else here work from home? I need a pep talk!

[Kerrytravelers]

I just can not get myself together and get my reports done. I have no focus today and it must get done today! Help!

[azmouse]

1. Set a timer and work for one hour.

Get as much done as you can in that hour knowing you can stop for a treat. The treat can be anything... a piece of chocolate or a walk around the block, for instance.

It's simple but it works for me. And you might be surprised at how much you can get done in just one hour. If things are going well after the hour just keep going.

[Kerrytravelers]

3. The timer is a great idea.

My work space is in the living room because we're in a one-bedroom apartment. It's hard being right there with the tv and the cat. I know I should focus, but on days like today, I just can't!

[azmouse]

6. Don't even think about putting on the tv.

I stopped watching tv during the day. It's way too distracting. Try soft music on the radio so your home isn't too quiet.

[NightWatcher]

2. I work early then play when I'm done

[Kerrytravelers]

4. That's what I really should do.

I'm in the process of revamping my schedule to make it more accomodating for working at home.

[youthere]

5. LOG OFF OF DU!

Honestly, this place is my biggest distraction when I'm working from home. I tell myself I'm only popping in for a few minutes and wind up spending hours.

[Kerrytravelers]

7. You are so right!

I come here just for a break and end up staying for hours!

[Lydia Leftcoast]

8. I've worked out of my home for 13 years. Here's what I do:

1. Reward myself after each page or each chapter or each Power Point slide. I tell myself, "After I finish this, I can get a cup of coffee. After I finish this, I can go check the mail. After I finish this, I can take a 20-minute nap."

2. I pack up my laptop and go to my friendly, locally-owned, WiFi-equipped coffee shop. The change of scenery helps.

[MistressOverdone]

9. Coffee!

[nosillies]

10. This is what I do

I watch all of the court shows on TV all afternoon -- Judge Mathis, Judge Judy, The People's Court, etc.

Then, at about 5:00, I realize that if I don't snap out of it and get some real work done that makes money or continue working toward my advanced degree that I TOO CAN END UP BEING AS MUCH OF A DUMBASS AS MOST PEOPLE ON THOSE SHOWS.

It's really quite sobering. It's like Scared Straight. It gets me going.

[Parche]

11. Pep Talk

Alternate between DU and the report, each hour................