When I learned Laura Spencer, of Writing Thoughts, had juggled  a home business with caring for her father, as well as her family, I thought some of her tips would be helpful for other home business owners who are in the midst of this, too.  They’re part of the “sandwich generation” with responsibilities in numerous directions.  Even if your business doesn’t involve writing, Laura’s tips should help you.
Juggling Caring for a Loved One With Your Home Business
 By Laura Spencer
When Mary Emma asked me to write this guest post I was hesitant for two reasons. First of all, it’s been less than …read more

 
Laura Spencer, Writing Thoughts, recently awarded Home Biz Notes and me the Rockin’ Girl Blogger Award!  For gals only, it’s fun to be included.  It’s also a neat way to recognize some of the other bloggers who leave comments, give me inspiration, and help make this blogging world a blast.
(That’s not to say the guys in the Business Channel and from other blogs haven’t been very helpful.  They’ve been so patient with a non-techie like me and have only offered encouragement.  There should be an award for them!)
Since some of the gals who encourage me have already been nominated.  As this …read more

If you’re thinking of starting a home business, whether solely on the Internet or a shop in your home where customers come, you should develop a business plan. Even if you’ve started your home business and don’t have a business plan, you could benefit by developing one for future direction and growth.  If you’re considering going to a bank for a loan or start-up capital, you’ll definitely need to show you have a plan.
Laura Spencer at Writing Thoughts has reviewed a book, The Ernst & Young Business Plan Guide, that’s worthwhile to consider when you’re developing your home business plan.
           …read more

We’ve covered this topic before, but it’s always good to think about, “Why am I working at home?” when we’re beset by interruptions, your family (or friends) think you don’t have to keep on task, you’re tempted to get off track yourself and a myriad of other frustrations.  Take stock of the advantages you enjoy.
Laura Spencer, at Writing Thoughts , wrote Top Five Reasons to Work at Home  and let us know  why she finds working at home is a great advantage.
*Scheduling Flexability
*You Can Say No
*No Commute
*No Dress Code
*Pets Are Allowed
Check out Laura’s discussion about these reasons and you’ll find yourself nodding, …read more

Here’s an interesting reason for having a home business…you’re able to care for a family member who is ill, has a debilitating disease, has Alzheimer’s, or is handicapped and dependent on others for assistance.  You’re not juggling your work-away-from-home schedule with caring for them.
Katelyn at Life Without Memories gives us advantages (and disadvantages) for working at home when you have an Alzheimer’s family member.  She also refers to Laura at Writing Thoughts who tells about working at home and caring for her father with Alzheimer’s, as well as her family.
Granted, you’ll still have a juggling job, but you won’t have …read more