The benefits of working from home are numerous. More and more people are making the transition towards working at home, either by starting their own home business or telecommuting with their current employer. Here is a list of advantages I personally benefit from with my home-based business.

1. Save time on commuting.

So many hours are lost in travelling time. The time you save on commuting can be re-assigned to other things, such as family time, sleep or exercise. Why not start work an hour earlier and finish earlier?

2. Save money and get tax benefits.

Save money on petrol, parking, tolls, car insurance, public transport, clothing, lunch and coffee, and maybe even on daycare or after school care! Even better, get tax deductions on all your work-related expenses, which can even include your electricity and mortgage!

3. Be your own boss.

Anyone who has ever been frustrated with the unpractical demands of a boss can imagine the benefits of being your own boss! Being able to do things your way, make your own schedule, make final decisions and avoid unnecessary meetings can be a real asset to one’s productivity and job satisfaction.

4. Develop broad skills and choose your functions.

When you work for yourself, you rely on yourself to complete the work. Especially if you run your own business, your job description will be all-inclusive, and seeing a project from start to finish can be extremely gratifying. You can even choose to delegate or outsource the tasks you do not enjoy – this is not usually an option when you work for someone else!

5. Be productive.

No more interruptions from meetings you do not benefit from and impromptu visits from colleagues. Turn the phone off if you want to.

6. Personally benefit from your hard work.

When you own your business, you create results for yourself. The financial reward is the first that will come to mind; it is all yours. But what about the emotional rewards? Having so much interest in the final outcome will be a boost to your motivation and pride in your work.

7. Create your ideal work environment.

Get yourself a window! Choose your air conditioning setting, lighting and colour scheme. Make your office inspiring and comfortable.

8. Improve your health.

Working from home offers many opportunities to incorporate healthy habits in your routine. Make healthier home-made lunches as opposed to the convenient fast-food option. Exercise daily at your preferred time, even if it is in the middle of the day. Sleep more; you’re only seconds away from your office! Reduce your stress and have more energy as a results from this healthier lifestyle.

9. Be available for family or personal commitments.

Pick up your kids after school or attend their school performances or sport games. Mind them while they are sick without having to take a full day off work. Be home in time for a family dinner. Drive your friend to a doctor’s appointment. Attend personal events without asking for approval. Make up for your absences in your own time. This is freedom.

10. Have flexibility to do housework.

You can incorporate household chores into your daily routine. Doing the laundry and grocery shopping during the week will free up your weekends! Remember, you’ve got more time now that you don’t commute! You can be home for the repairman without taking time off work, and make some personal phone calls without going outside of the office!