It's a common perception that home workers experience a significant boost in productivity. Although this can be true, it isn't true for everyone.

As a home worker - whether you work for a company or work for yourself - it's up to YOU to ensure that you get the job done. Working from home, no matter how great it sounds in theory, isn't for everyone. It takes a certain type of person to be successful at home. Ask yourself:

= Can I resist the temptations around me, such as the TV, refrigerator, the sunny deck or garden?

= Am I well-organized? Can I work without supervision and keep track of what still needs to be done, and by when? = Do I tend to put things off until 'later', or am I self- motivated? Will I be able to complete the tasks at hand effectively and on time?

= Do I have good time-management skills?

= Can I work alone, or would I miss the daily interaction with co-workers in a traditional office environment? Would I be tempted to make excessive personal phone calls just to 'make contact'?

= Am I able to set goals and stick to them?

The much-touted 'freedom' of working from home is balanced by responsibilities. Many home workers have found that establishing a routine helps to keep them on track. That means:

= Get dressed when you get up - working in your pajamas can make you feel "too" relaxed and unmotivated.

= Set 'regular' office hours. Start working at the same time every day -- and STOP working at same time too. Home workers often fall into the habit of working all the time, since the "office" is only a few steps away!

= Develop established work routines. For example, you may decide to do tedious administrative tasks every Friday afternoon. Routines help you to accomplishment work that you may otherwise be tempted to put off.

= Create self-imposed deadlines - and stick to them. Even if you work for yourself, establishing deadlines helps to keep you on track and continuously working to achieve your goals.

These are just a few things to consider before looking for at-home work. Only you can decide if it's right for you.