After reading blog posts and magazine articles about telecommuting or working from home, one aspect of the business seems to top everyone’s list - free time.

While people who work from home can usually establish their own schedule and take breaks without permission, this doesn’t always equal free time. Granted, I may not spend my entire day working on projects. But I do spend a large portion of my days taking care of business - whether it’s personal or related to freelance writing.

I strive to complete most of my assignments in the morning - I function better during this time of day. Afterwards, I may spend some time planning out the next few days. This can include finding resources for articles, researching potential markets and querying editors. This is in addition to exercising, volunteering, taking care of a house, and being a wife.

Don’t get me wrong - I’m not complaining. Quite the contrary, I enjoy a busy schedule. Besides, it leaves less time for worrying, which is what I do best. And when I need a break, I take a break. But talk to any telecommuter or anyone who owns a home-based business, and they’ll tell you the truth about free time. And believe me, it isn’t sleeping late, lounging on the couch, and watching soap operas - there’s always something to do.

Simply put, having a flexible schedule makes it possible to complete everything necessary - within a 24 hour period.