No matter how far into your career you are, it’s likely that you’ve worked from home at one point or another. To many, working from home often seems like the ultimate perk, since you can work in your PJs, create some flexibility in your schedule, and avoid a long and boring commute. The science also backs up that working from home has benefits like decreasing stress and increasing happiness.

Despite the perks that come with a work from home job, when you do it regularly it can be tough to stay motivated and reach maximum productivity. Working in the same place you relax and unwind can also make it more difficult to unplug from your work life. Those that enjoy socializing with colleagues may also quickly find themselves feeling isolated.

[RELATED: 5 Steps to Keeping a Work-Life Balance When You Work from Home]

Managing yourself is an important skill to master no matter what stage of your career you are in. An important aspect of self-management is preparing yourself to ward against inevitable distractions. By being mindful of the interruptions you might face when working at home, you can better prepare yourself to stay focused. If you are aware of potential productivity hurdles, you’ll be better able to create a working structure that works for you. For example, if you’re likely to be distracted by family or roommates, consider setting boundaries during your working hours to ensure that you stay focused. By creating a rule to keep the TV off while you’re online, you’re setting yourself up for a more productive work life.

Understanding both the benefits of working from home and the potential roadblocks you might encounter will help you learn to excel at managing yourself. Fundera created a guide on tips for working from home. Read on to learn no-fail ways to maximize your productivity and happiness, whether you work from home regularly or on occasion.

You’re the Boss! Self-Management Techniques When You’re Working Alone [INFOGRAPHIC]