Last week, my friend and fellow entrepreneur Donna Maria of Indie Beauty Network and Indie Business Blog interviewed me about my fledgling company. You can read her article here.

One of the topics that struck a cord with both of us was around the challenges of working from home. Especially, like in our cases, when you have a spouse (hers works in the business, mine does not) and children. For many other people, substitute the words “roommates” or “noisy neighbors” and the same issues will probably arise.

Below are more of my thoughts on the subject.

Lose the pajamas, shorts and t-shirt.

I’m a big believer in dressing for success. For me, that means putting on business casual clothes when I’m working, even if I’m not going anywhere that day. There have been many times when an opportunity to meet with someone came up suddenly, and I’ve been able to jump in the car and go.

Hey, if you are as brilliant as Steve Jobs and can pull off jeans and a black turtleneck every day (or whatever you’re comfortable in), go for it. But my guess is that most people will feel better about themselves by consistently showering, brushing your teeth, combing your hair and putting on something they wouldn’t be embarrassed to be seen wearing in public.

Establish a routine. Set “office hours” and stick to them.

Resist the urge to just pop into your office at any hour of the day. Otherwise, it’ll become a black hole that continually suck you into the void of work and away from the rest of your life.

I say that as I sit here “after hours” writing this, but the wife and kids are away for a brief bit and it’s the only chance I’ll get! (See how easily the justifications to keep working become?)

Set clearly defined boundaries.

This one is especially tough with small children around, but you gotta do it. Make sure that everyone knows that when mommy or daddy is in this room, he or she is working, the door stays shut and you keep the noise away.

Unfortunately, this is easier said than done, but something you must try and adhere to. Few things are as awkward as a screaming infant or toddler interrupting a business call, but it’ll happen. Your goal is to minimize those interruptions, focus on what you’re doing and above all stop feeling guilty that you aren’t helping when it sounds like the house is crashing down around you. If you have a stay-at-home spouse or roommate, tell them politely but firmly that you are in there to work, and not to bother you unless it is absolutely necessary. Hopefully, they will be understanding and honor your request. Be as firm as possible—until you see smoke or hear sirens.

As for noisy neighbors, you need to be upfront with them and explain your situation. It will not always be possible for them to accommodate your every wish (e.g., complete silence from 9-5), but hopefully if you are on good terms with them, they will be respectful during certain times of the day, or agree to tone things down when you have important calls or meetings scheduled. Otherwise, you’re going to have to be more defensive on your end in sound proofing your workspace. If diplomacy fails and they don’t pipe down, then check with your local authorities on your rights. I wish you the best of luck on this one—the last thing you need when trying to run your business is having a simultaneous feud with a hostile neighbor. Your best best might be to clear out and work someplace else.

Pimp your workspace.

First of all, get rid of the spare bedroom furniture, kiddie toys, dog beds, cardboard boxes and whatever else is junking up the room and make it a real office. That means getting a proper desk, good lighting, ample filing and storage bins. The photo I used for this post should give you plenty of inspiration (an architect’s home office, no less) .

It took me a solid weekend to break down and reconfigure my own workspace, and it was well worth the time. I no longer stare at a rumpled bed, clumps of dried up Play-Doh and assorted other non-work-related objects. Getting your office properly configured will help give you more energy and focus.

Get your own stuff.

First, get your own computer. Next, make sure you have your own phone line. I use two very inexpensive services, Skype and Kall8.com. Neither requires a landline. Whatever your preference, just make sure you aren’t competing with family members or roommates for phone time.

The same goes for having your own printer, paper, stamps and other basic office supplies. Make sure everyone knows it’s yours and not to mooch off of you. Other than interrupted phone calls, few things are as maddening as needing to get something done on a deadline and finding you are out of essential items. Do your part also and regularly check and replenish your stock. If necessary, keep them under lock and key.

What about you? Do you (or have you) worked from home? If so, I look forward to getting your comments about the trials and tribulations of calling home your workplace.

Photo credit: Jeremy Levine Design