If you're sharing a home with other people, you need a separate phone line and Internet hookup for your office. If you spend much time on Internet yourself, a direct connection like cable or DSL is very, very helpful.

Make it Safe! When you work from home, you don't have a Workplace Health & Safety Committee looking out for your best interests. Learn about workplace ergonomics and take it seriously. Having to shut down your Internet business because of carpal tunnel syndrome isn't a good business plan.

Remember your eyes. If you're on computer for long hours, get a glare-resistant screen for monitor, or ask your optometrist about glare resistant eye-glasses.

You'll need to position your monitor so sunlight doesn't shine on it directly. If this can't be arranged easily, be creative about finding a way to block sun. An artist's easel holding a large poster or chart is one approach.

Light It! The best lighting is lighting that allows you to see what you are doing without strain to your eyes. Many find that incandescent lighting is easier on eyes than fluorescent lighting or cool lighting.

Deduct It! You'll want to check with your taxation department, but in many countries, some aspects of a home office are tax deductible. In Canada, for example, you can deduct a portion of home expenses (rent, utilities, etc.) for your home office. BUT your office must be separate from rest of house and used only for business purposes. Find out what's deductible before you file your taxes.

================================================ How to Write Business Plans, Business Proposals, JV Contracts, Human Resource Package, More! No-cost ebook "Beginners Guide to Ecommerce". Business Writing by Nightcats Multimedia Productions http://www.nightcats.com ================================================

On dark days visit a mentor or if you don't have one establish a relationship with one. I guarantee you a seasoned businessperson has gone through many dark days. Share your thoughts, feelings and concerns with them. Listen to what they have to say. Gain wisdom and understanding from their experience.

The next time you sit at your computer, analyze your goals. Review your purpose. Reflect back on your accomplishments. Applaud yourself. Put a smile on your face and get going again. Dark days are never permanent situations. The sun always shines again.

On Dark Days © 2000 Jenean Matthews is a businesswoman who believes in encouraging and helping others to accomplish their dreams. She believes people can overcome obstacles, rise to any occasion, and accomplish their entire dream with enough faith. She can be found accomplishing her dream at http://www.1stshoppingavenue.com or subscribe to newsletter for chances to win free gifts salespaper-subscribe@topica.com