To do that, replace casual-speak and wishful promises of what you’d like to have happen or believe can happen, with commitments of what will happen. But here’s key. You can’t commit what you can’t control. If I tell a member of my staff he’ll get his review next week, but I only control when I finish writing it not when it’s approved, likelihood of me failing to meet an expectation I set with him is strong. But if review is written, signed by my boss, and in for processing at time I set expectation, I’ll meet it.

Our delinquent artisan could have called three months into project, told us he accepted an unusual opportunity to restore an historic building, was putting his other projects on hold until that was complete, and offered us choice of waiting until he resumed work or getting our deposit back. He could have preserved his credibility and relationship.

Actions may speak louder than words. But it’s our words that provide backdrop for whether our actions measure up. If I’m your customer, your boss, or your co-worker, I’m taking your words seriously. I think you should, too.

(c) 2004 Nan S. Russell. All rights reserved.

Sign up to receive Nan’s free eColumn, Winning at Working, at http://www.winningatworking.com. Nan Russell has spent over twenty years in management, most recently with QVC as a Vice President. Currently working on her first book, Nan is a writer, columnist, small business owner, and instructor.

Then, one day, it's like an Angel comes down and says, "Ok you have proven yourself; now you will succeed.” BAM, just like that, you start earning enough to put a little away, pay off debt, take a vacation, or reinvest into your business.

That is when it really gets exciting!! You have now learned enough to start teaching others and you can now apply your knowledge to find more ways to earn. Your business grows more all time, increasing your income everyday. You can now quit your day job to work at home full time. Soon you will be financially secure.

It can be rough to start a home business and jump onto work at home wagon. Many people give up without ever really giving it a true effort. In order to succeed you need to: 1) keep learning 2) work hard 3) develop your mind and skills 4) ask questions 5) apply your knowledge

Find a mentor and copy what they do, but add your own twist to it. Visit forums to learn from others that are successful. Do something constructive and worthwhile with your home business every day and you will reap rewards soon.

Remember there are no get rich quick opportunities and you can’t be lazy just because you work at home. Being in business for yourself means working very hard, especially for first year or two. It sure beats alternative, doesn’t it?