Having owned and operated my home based business for well over 12 years, I know the challenges one faces when operating out of their home. In the initial stages of setting up your business, there are some obstacles to overcome if you are to become profitable.
1. Being taken seriously by your family, friends and neighbors. It's important to set ground rules for others. Let them know this is a serious venture and you need them to respect your work time and work space.
2. Having a designated area to conduct work. Many a business have been started on the kitchen table. Although this can work, you will find that you are more productive if you have a space that is dedicated solely for running your business. Ideally, a room that is used solely for business. There are tax benefits to this too.
3. Self-imposed distractions. It's amazing how other things will "call" to you while you are trying to work. Things like taking out the trash, doing the laundry, running an errand for a family member. The fact is, if you are working outside of the home you wouldn't be able to throw a load of clothes in the washer and dryer. You would have to schedule that in. Not that multi tasking is a bad thing. Actually, it can work in your favor. Just be aware that one little task leads to another then another then another. Before you know it your day is gone.
Treat your business as such and before you know it you will be well on your way to realizing real profits.