The majority of ISOs and merchant level salespeople are highly motivated and self-disciplined professionals. Some have been working on their own for years. The novel coronavirus has thrust others into working from home for the first time.
Numerous people new to working solo are embracing such perks as not having to commute or being able to spend all day in their pajamas if they so choose. Others feel somewhat isolated, missing daily, in-person interaction with peers. Many parents face the dual challenge of carving out space for a home office while also home-schooling their children.
Given the unprecedented situation we find ourselves in, here are some ideas on how to make working from home as productive and positive as possible.
Establish a set of ground rules for family and friends so they'll understand the importance of respecting your needs. If you live alone, you won't have anyone underfoot, but you might need to set limits with folks who expect you to drop everything during the workday to text, chat, email or video conference with them. Setting regular work hours and telling your inner circle what the hours are, for example, will go a long way toward ensuring their cooperation so you can fulfill your professional duties. Impressing upon them the importance of not expecting you to address household matters during your work hours is essential.
Establishing a routine is another must, starting with before you begin work each morning. When you commute to the job, you do a number of things before heading out the door. Even though you won't have to leave the premises, having a before-work routine will help you prepare mentally to tackle your workday. Showering and putting on the clothes you'd usually wear to the office isn't required if nobody will see you in person, but it might be a good idea to do it anyway to prepare yourself mentally and boost your energy for the hours ahead.
Or you might want to take a brisk walk around the block before you enter your office even though all you have to do to get to work is walk down the hall. The specific actions are up to you, but defining them and sticking with them for the most part will help you focus. To increase efficiency, you can also schedule blocks for different tasks during the day, realizing sometimes these will have to change as unexpected issues and events arise.
It's essential that you take at least a morning and afternoon break, as well as an adequate lunch period. During these times, disengage from your computer screen and phone. No matter how busy you are, don't shortchange yourself on this. And whenever possible, take your breaks outside so you can enjoy fresh air and sunshine. You'll return to the tasks at hand much fresher and be more productive as a result.
Whatever parameters you set up, remember that a modicum of flexibility works wonders, too. 
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