Back in July, I lamented my inability to stay focused on task when booting up my computer. I casually mentioned that my new job made working at home a challenge. Well, I’ve recognized that it is much, much more than a challenge… it is a daunting rift in the fabric of my life.
For sixteen years, my life has been one of selling my products and services in a face-to-face environment. That’s what I’m good at. That’s what I like. That’s what I miss in this New World Order… Face-to-face.
Unfortunately, when I look at the bottom of my paycheck, it isn’t my name on the signature line. The name there happens to be the arbiter of my activity, my boss. Since I have dedicated my professional life to whatever he deems important to our enterprise, his desire for me to work on the phone and computer, in pajamas if necessary, is not considered a suggestion. It is my marching order.
I gave it a good try. I really did. I even used the computer while dressed in my bathrobe and made calls on prospects. Of course, between calls, I made coffee, unloaded the dishwasher, got irritated that my wife was using the printer for her business when I needed it for mine, and just generally found life getting increasingly complicated.
Stress levels went through the roof and the fallout was unbelievable. I spiraled into a deep depression that ate a week of “tivity,” having the intention of performing “ac,” but leaving the residue of “inac.”
I called a couple of friends who do not object to my bitching and complaining about life (as long as it doesn’t go on for too long) and received much needed kicks in the behind camouflaged as helpful suggestions and support. A few more fits and starts, a few more well delivered “suggestions” and I was ready to go do something else because I couldn’t sit on the kitchen chair any longer.
Now, after three months of fighting it, I’ve given into the realization that I am simply not a stay-at-home-worker. I’m moving into an office space. It will add about $6,000 to my annual expenses but it should increase my productivity by 1000% or more.
It will take a small bit of adjustment time but I’m up to the task. Life will be simpler. I will have a chair to sit upon at a table to hold my portable computer with wireless cell phone modem for internet access and a cell phone with Bluetooth headset so I can talk and type.
I will have to learn new tricks yet again but they seem somewhat easier than the ones I need to learn now. After all, how hard can it be to learn to drive to work in pajamas?
I’ll let you know down the road.
Happy Selling!