You've made the decision that you want to work from home, but now you're feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. This is where most of us begin our work at home journey. When I quit my corporate job thirteen years ago in favor of at-home employment, I was full of excitement ... and terror. I've learned a lot over the years, but the foundation that I started with is what has kept me moving steadily forward.

What To Do

The first decision you'll need to make is what you will do from home. You may have funding available to you and be able to open your own small business, or you may decide to seek employment. The first step is knowing which direction you're headed in.

Take time to research each option and know what is available to you and what you can handle right now. I began working from home as a contractor for a local business. I built my own business up during my off hours until it was at a point where I could work for myself full-time.

Where You'll Be

The next step you need to take is to evaluate your home and determine where you can set up a dedicated work space. I have found that I'm much more focused and efficient when I am working at my desk rather than at the kitchen table or from my laptop in front of the TV.  No matter the size and shape of your home, find a place that can be set aside for your work area, even if you have to be creative and work in a closet.

When It Will Take Place

Now you must think through your routine. When will be available to work at this new at-home endeavor? Be honest with yourself about how many hours you have open for work, and what time of day you can be available. By knowing your availability, you can narrow down job choices or determine hours of operation if you're opening your own business. Make others aware of your new work hours and be consistent so that your customers know when and how to reach you.

Make it Happen

Taking the step of faith to begin working from home is a big decision. It will take more determination and perseverance than you can imagine right now. However, if you think through the necessary steps, you will create a firm foundation for yourself that will serve you long into the future.

When the time comes, be bold and walk forward, knowing that you've done the planning, organizing and dreaming necessary to make big things happen.

Jill Hart's entrepreneurial career began in her teens when she spent a summer working with her father who ran his own business. When he put her in charge of a Coke machine and allowed her to keep the profits, she saw the benefits of being her own boss. She is the founder of Christian Work at Home Ministries and the co-author of So You Want To Be a Work-at-Home Mom. Jill has articles published in In Touch Magazine, P31 Woman magazine and Focus on the Family's Thriving Family, as well as across the web on sites like DrLaura.com. She speaks to audiences around the country about faith and business topics. Learn more about Jill at JillHart.com and connect with her on "http://www.facebook.com/SpeakerJillHart" "FB Jill Hart" and "http://twitter.com/cwahm."  Permission granted for use on DrLaura.com.