Working from home can be wonderful--no rush hour traffic, no co-worker's dirty dishes in the sink or splatters in the microwave, a private bathroom, and best of all, a micro-commute in your pj's and bunny slippers.

Although there are many advantages to a home-based office, there are also challenges. It’s not always easy to maintain your focus. It's important to set boundaries so the line between personal and business doesn't get blurred. Here are some ways you can successfully manage the pitfalls of a home-based office.

Family Boundaries
If you have a family, it's important to clarify with them when it's ok to interrupt and when it's not. My dad worked from home, and he made it very clear that we were not to "bother" him unless it was important. Having that understanding made it clear that what Dad was doing was more important than my ratting out my older brother.

Pets
If you have a dog like I do, you know what a challenge dogs can be. In, out, in, out, all day long. My little Sophie has the habit of putting her front paws on my desk and pushing my hands off the keyboard so I can pet her. As cute as that is, it can be very distracting. (What timing--she's doing it as I try to write this!) My solution? Doggie daycare whenever possible; it's fun for her and helps me focus on my work.

Schedule
Maintaining a regular 9-5 work schedule will help you stay in "work mode." Try your best to focus on work and not on all the distractions of your personal life (dirty dishes, laundry). Keep personal emails and phone calls at bay by dedicating time to them only during breaks or lunch.

Stay in Touch
Working alone can make you feel isolated. Stay connected by meeting colleagues or friends for coffee or lunch--just as you'd do if you were at the office. Be sure to set time limits; otherwise, your hour lunch could easily turn into a 3-hour lunch. (You know what I mean, ladies.)

Maintain a Clear Focus
Use a cueing device to help stay on task. When my mind begins to wander, I catch myself and glance over at my "Right Now" pebble. Then, I ask, "What am I supposed to be focused on right now?" That's generally all I need to pull myself back into focus and get back to work. Try a cueing device to see if it helps you maintain better focus, too.

Change Things Up
One of my favorite ways to create better focus is to change my work environment. Twice a week I head to the Morton Arboretum and set up shop. They have free Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and a beautiful view--what could be better? I'm always amazed how productive I am when it's just me and my laptop. I strongly encourage you to find an alternate venue for a few hours a week if you can. Just be sure it's somewhere less distracting than home.

We'd love to hear from you. What are your best tips for maintaining focus while working from home?