Enterprise Nation

Last week, I uploaded some comments from the Home Business Award entries, on how you are growing your home based businesses. This week, it’s time to find out what you’re saying about perfecting the homeworking  lifestyle.

Getting closer

It’s only one week to go before we announce the winner of the Home Business Award. In the meantime, here are a few of my favourite comments that were made on how you are successfully combining your business with domestic life.

Ten extra hands

"Working from home gives me the flexibility to fit work around my family. My husband also works from home so I get to see him more. We have five daughters ranging from 17 years to 16 months. They help in the business and my older daughters like the work experience and an insight into how businesses are run."

Communication is key..and de-cluttering too

"Communication is important for family harmony. My husband and three children are much more understanding if I explain when things are busy, and remember to thank them when it quietens down again. I make time to declutter the office so it’s a pleasant place to work and I’m grateful to clients who are supportive and flexible. Their approach really helps me balance domestic and professional life."

Local shopper

"I am able to support the local economy by shopping locally. Not having to stick to a 9-5 routine means I can walk the children to school so we also get plenty of exercise and I save money on petrol."

Disciplined timing and personal training

"I have 2 school age children and manage to juggle their demands with running a house and a business. My core working hours are during school time. After school, I still work but the children become my priority so projects are put on the backburner for a few hours. My children take great pleasure in assisting me with small tasks like stapling and sticking on stamps, which means they feel involved in the business and are acquiring some commercial awareness. I have a personal trainer 3 times a week which not only keeps me healthy but makes me feel ready to tackle the day ahead."

Last words go to ...Dad of the Year!

"I have a young family and enjoy being Dad about the house. My office in the garden allows me to separate work and home very easily. I’m proud of my dual roles; I’m a focused professional and a cuddly Dad – all within 30 feet and 30 seconds of each other."

Thanks again to everyone who entered. Your entries have been a delight to read.

- Emma Jones