This is absolutely critical to your motivation. There was a reason you decided to stay home with your little ones and this reason will keep you moving along when times are tough.

For some it's freedom, you are your own boss now. Remember that boss who never really appreciated your dedication? Or those impossible deadlines? What about all that time spent in traffic that could have been spent in bed?

For some it's the flexibility that is super appealing. No more missed ball games or play dates. Or what about that dentist appointment that you couldn't take last week because you couldn't get the time off? Now you have another two weeks to wait before you can see him. What about that friend that you have been wanting to help out but just haven't had the time? Now you can set your schedule to your life, not your life to your schedule! You can work after the kids go to bed or before they get up.

For others it's extra income and no payment to the daycare center. Sometimes childcare eats up half of what you make and it's easy to wonder what it's all for. There can be so much stress for just a few extra bucks that sometimes it's not worth it. So maybe your spouse can pay all the bills but you're sick of sitting at home with no extra money to buy the things you like or take your family to the water park.

For most it's to be with the kids and not miss out on them growing up. There are so many cool things that you get to witness when you stay home. Although you may not be actively involved, you can hear the kids playing, learning and even fighting. Their interactions are all just so cute! You also can be their number one influence if you are home. And it's fun to take that "little" break and check out the cool snake they found or the little tower they built.

It's easy to be overwhelmed over the stress that comes from working at home, especially with small children but don't forget to count the pro's. They must not be taken for granted. We may think at times that the grass is greener on the other side but if you can realistically imagine yourself there you will see that it has its downs too.

Keep your goals before you

This ties into your "why." Whatever motivated you to work from home to begin with will go a long way in keeping you motivated if you keep it always in sight. Set some goals and review them daily. Take pictures if you can and put them in your work space to see every day.

Take breaks

We all need them! Even if it means a short nap. It is near impossible to focus mentally if you are exhausted physically. Sleep when the little ones sleep. You will be much better prepared to handle the stresses of the day if you are rested.

Give yourself a deadline

A self imposed deadline can be a major motivator. It makes things more "official" and gives you a reason to keep working when you don't feel like it. Tell someone about it to keep you more accountable.

Relationships

Little children are some of life's greatest blessings but can also be some of life's greatest stresses. You will benefit from some type of support or some adult to talk to. We all need to blow off some steam or have a mature conversation sometimes. When working from home, we don't have co-workers to shoot the breeze with so there needs to be another outlet. Play dates are great for both you and your little ones.

Your children will enjoy the freedom to run and play that they may not have while your working, and you will enjoy having friends also!

Don't work for free

Don't forget to reward yourself! I'm sure you've heard the term, "pay yourself first"! It's said with good reason. It keeps you motivated! When you reach that goal or deadline, go buy that dress you wanted or put some money towards that Hawaii trip, you get what I am saying. We reward our children for "good behavior", why not ourselves?

Some practical things that can be done to make the work day go a bit smoother include teaching your children to respect your "office" hours. Well trained children will lessen your stress, making it easier to stay motivated.

You should also plan for interruptions. They are bound to happen and if you expect them, they will be less stressful.

When life is demanding, remember the positives and you will keep plugging along. You will not regret your decision to stay home when your children are grown and you didn't miss out on it. It will happen sooner that any of us thinks. Happy working!