SELF-DISCIPLINE* When you're in the middle of working

SELF-DISCIPLINE
* When you're in the middle of working on something, are you able to resist playing computer solitaire or checking your e-mail every few minutes?
* Do you usually concentrate on the task at hand until it's finished?
* Are there a lot of things in your life, such as exercising regularly or quitting smoking, that you've accomplished by making a plan and following through?
* Can you pass up fun invitations from friends and family when you have unfinished business to attend to and have to get it done?

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY
* If you hit an empty car in a parking lot, would you try to find the owner and tell them what happened?
* Do you own up to your mistakes (or at least most of them)?
* When you take on a project or task, do you consider it "yours"-even if it doesn't work out the way you intended it to?
* Are you a firm believer in the value of insurance, whether it's a policy from an insurance company to protect your ass(ets) or a written contract for an agreement between two parties (even friends and family)?
Your results: Look at your ratio of yes to no answers in each section. If you have more "yes" and "maybe" than "no" in a section, consider this area one of your strengths. If your "no" entries are the majority, these are the characteristics you should concentrate on developing. Remember, practice makes perfect!

Now that you're passionate, motivated, determined, self-disciplined, and personally responsible, let's review what characteristics your home office needs in the recipe for virtual success.

You're ready for business-is your business ready for you?

Your home office must be as open and conducive to running a virtual corporation as you are. Having a dedicated space for business is imperative, whether it's an entire room or just the corner of your living room. If you work outside the home and rent or lease space for your office, you should still apply the following tips for creating a professional atmosphere in your work area.

Your home office can be professional and comfortable!

Noise Pollution: Eliminating the Background Buzz

How fast would you hang up the phone if you called a dentist or a plumber and heard video games and barking dogs in the background? What your clients hear when they call your business plays a large part in their evaluation of your company. You don't need to invest in on-hold music to create a professional impression, but you do need to ensure life doesn't interrupt your business calls.

The best way to do this, of course, is to have a separate room dedicated to office space. Also, make sure your family and any friends that are likely to drop by unannounced know that when you're in the office, you are working and should not be disturbed. Talk with them ahead of time to avoid hurt feelings, and let them know the times you will be available for things not related to work.