Running a Home Based Business: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Copyright © Oscar Salcedo

These days, nearly every one is searching for a way to make a little extra cash. With gas prices soaring to new heights, thereby raising the cost of nearly everything we buy, it's no wonder why what used to be a decent pay check is no longer stretching far enough to cover the bills. Many of us are often finding there is too much month at the end of the paycheck. But what can be done? With growing frequency, society is beginning to turn toward working from home. Before you get wrapped up in the hype of owning a home based business, though, you should really hear the good, the bad, AND the ugly.

There are many 'good' parts about working from the comfort of your own home. The most commonly mention benefit is being able to stay home with the children. There is definitely something to be said about avoiding all the hassles, and increasing expense, of the children attending day care. Aside from the obvious(cost, time to drop them off and pick them up, and planning around the daycare's schedule), you'll also have less worry about your kids picking up illnesses, injuries, or other unsanitary issues. Another benefit of having a home based business would be less wasted time; you'll no longer spend an hour (or often more) every day doing nothing better than driving to and from your job.

One little-discussed con to having your own home based business is the increased frequency of distractions. All too easily, children, phone calls, or even the television playing in the background will draw you away from your actual work. It takes someone with a great deal of focus to successfully complete the work necessary, despite what is going on around them. On the other hand, there are some people who become so involved with their work, and their ever-growing to-do list, that work carries over well beyond regular working hours. Due to the lack of an office full of people that specialize in their own area, running a business out of your home can often demand a lot more from a person than a regular nine-to-five would. When you are the sole director of your own success, it can often be hard to force yourself to walk away for a while. While their is nothing wrong with becoming wholly engrossed in your work, obsessing over it can be harmful to your physical and emotional well being, as well as to your social relationships.

The ugly side of running a home based business is another area that is frequently ignored. While it is easy to get excited over the prospect of being your own boss, some people fail to realize exactly what kind of work will be required. Not only will you be responsible for the tasks involved for the work or service you provide, but you will also be responsible for many other aspects of the business, as well. This can include accounts receivable, accounts payable, marketing, and even human resources in some instances. Before launching a home business, it is important that one realize this, and give it some serious thought. It might be easy to say "oh sure, no problem", but will you honestly be able to handle all these administrative tasks on your own?

These are endless pros, cons, and food for thought beyond what has been discussed. The important part is that you are aware of the need for serious research. Opening your own home based business should never be a decision made lightly. If you're uneducated from ALL angles, you will be highly unlikely to succeed. Despite the seemingly endless "down sides", working for yourself can be a fun, exciting, lucrative choice. You just need to be aware of what you're getting yourself into, first!




About the Author:
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Oscar Salcedo
To find the best home based business ideas and opportunities so you can work at home visit: Home Business Site
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