I’ve said this once and I’ll say it again: working from home is not for everyone! Being able to get things done requires a considerable amount of discipline because you can easily get distracted. Social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram and even your family (especially if you have kids) or friends can become your worst enemies while working from home. So here are a few tips to help you in your endeavor.

Step 1: Schedule

It is highly important that you set a schedule and it is even more important to stick to it! Even if most of the times working from home means a certain degree of flexibility in terms of your everyday schedule it’s recommended that you only take advantage of this feat on special occasions. This means that you are supposed to take your job seriously and set clear goals. One of these goals should be working for a fixed number of hours each day. Depending on the work volume, you can set a 4, 6 or even 8 hour a day schedule. Another important thing is to work during the same period of the day: either in the morning, in the afternoon, or even at night if that suits you. For instance, if you have kids, you can start working in the morning, after they’re off to school. Also keep in mind to take a break every couple of hours, so that you can reach the maximum level of productivity.

Step 2: Environment

Try setting up an office in one of the rooms of your house. You need a working space with as little distractions as possible. So avoid TVs, other computers, crowded rooms and, most importantly – beds. Under no circumstances should you work in the bedroom or even worse, in bed, because that will turn from working to sleeping in no time. So pick a quiet, well lighted room for your day to day work schedule. I even have friends who wake up every morning and dress up as if they were actually going to work. They pack themselves something to eat for lunch and don’t leave the study until they finish working. A bit extreme if you ask me, but it gets the job done, and in the end it’s all that matters.

Step 3: Tools

Speaking of distractions, you might want to invest in a new laptop or computer that you can exclusively use for work related activities. Otherwise, using your personal laptop, where you have bookmarked all those interesting tutorials and funny pictures will definitely not be a good idea. Also, keep in mind not to log in on any social network from your new laptop. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and even Youtube are off limits! You also might want to leave your smartphone somewhere else while working, because it can be equally distracting with all its apps and new games you are just dying to try.