Working at home can seem like the ultimate solution to all problems for many. And many times it is. But sometimes a reality check is needed to make sure you have really thought it all through. Because there will be difficult times, perhaps even times when you say – “I want to go get a J-O-B”
There will be good times and not so good times, the question is: how are you going to deal with it?

Freedom without boundaries – good or bad?
“I want to be my own boss”
“I’m sick and tired of waking up at 6am to commute for an hour before getting into work”
“I’d rather make my own hours”

I’m sure you’ve heard on if not all of the above statements before. It is wonderful to be your own boss, not having to commute and make your own hours. But you might also find yourself with too much freedom.

The result will be that you spend too much time on things that isn’t really helping your new business – taking care of the kids, cleaning, browsing, watching TV, reading, learning, more learning, and on it goes. In the beginning it is only normal to do these things but after a week of learning or fiddling and not making any money it is time to take some action!

You need to watch out or you will find yourself spending time on things that is not helping you but holding your business growth back.

How will you tackle the difficulties ahead?
What will you do when something happens and you have no health insurance or extra money? There will be months when money is tight and other months when money will be plenty. You will need to know how to balance the income and spending.

Think through the pro’s and con’s with your business and work on the pro’ list until it overweighs the con’s list. Talk to your partner about how you will handle the months when money is tight. Have a back up plan for how to tackle difficult situations.

Good planning will create a sense of security and comfort in case anything happens.

Are you ready for the challenge of working at home? Have you thought it all through? Have any questions? Have any advice for the new in the online business field? Please share your experiences in the comments.

So what do you need to start your online ventures? The demand for things you need will increase as your knowledge grows and your business expands. Here are ten ways to get you off to a great start:

1. The one basic thing you do need is a way to get paid for your work so search for the most convenient way for you to receive payment. Most common is PayPal and Moneybookers. See what will work best for where you live.

2. A reliable Internet connection, preferably ADSL or broadband. You can start out with a dial up connection, but it will be well worth investing in a fast internet connection.

3. Decide what you are going to do online. What are your previous experience and how can you use it to make money? Do you like to inform people and teach them, do you like to write, do you have a blog that you can turn make profitable?

4. Search for like minded people who have succeeded and learn from them. Visit forums like Self Starters Weekly and read blogs about Internet marketing. If you are a mom, hang out with moms who already have an online business and who can help you get your started.

5. Be prepared to spend some money. This is probably one of the hardest parts for many as they are trying to make money, not spend it. It is also one of the most valuable advices you can get and it will help you a long way. Do yourself a favor; do not spend hours trying to find information that might be correct, get the right information from the start from the right person. There are several good books and eBooks available online that will only cost you a few dollars but the information you get from them is invaluable. Consider joining mastermind groups and paid forums as well (I so wish someone had told me about Mom Masterminds when I started online, would have saved me so much valuable time and frustration). Investing wisely in your future will help you make money faster.

6. Understand that free is not always the best. This actually goes hand in hand with the above advice, but is worth mentioning again. Please understand that a free blog, a free site, a free this and a free that will not make a good impression and will reflect on how professional you are. Would you buy home insurance from someone with an office falling apart and without walls to support the building? Probably not, the same goes for those wanting to make business with you online. It doesn’t matter if you are a business owner who sell offline or a freelance writer who sell words; you need a home to show people around. If you do not invest in building a proper home for your business how will your future clients know you are professional? It’s the same thing as with offline connections: first impression lasts. If you are not prepared they will go to someone else. Invest in hosting for your site and a good domain name. I personally recommend BlueHost which is a reliable and affordable company.

7. A comfortable workspace will make you work so much better. You will be spending a good amount of time in front of the computer, it would be horrible if you got a bad back ache wouldn’t it? Use a good chair, make sure there is enough light and that you have a corner for yourself that is pleasant to be at.

8. Network. Connecting with other people who might be interested of your services or whom you can learn from is a perfect example of networking. Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, forums etc are examples of how to put your name out there. Take some time to learn how to use them the best and make sure you do not get caught up in them too much. They are important , but by networking all day you aren’t working ON your business which is really what you should be doing.

9. Make communication with you easy. Get Skype and talk to clients from all over the world. Use Trillian or MSN instant messaging to talk to potential business clients or keep up with employers. One tip is to have separate accounts for work and private life.

10. Don’t let the “how’s” stop you. There will be many questions along the way, be prepared and seek out people who can help you. This goes with number 4, f you already have connections it will be easier to find help when needed.

There is so much more to internet marketing, but these are some of the absolute essentials that can help you get off to a good start.

If you are an experienced Internet Marketer what basic advice would you have wanted when you started? Can you recommend a special book or course that helped you to take those first steps?