Laura was interviewed by the blog writer from the national company, eaHELP, which provides virtual executive assistants. This was the article, published August 2016.

Even the most disciplined remote worker can face challenges maintaining physical distinctions between where work and life happen. For expertise, we recently spoke with Laura Ray of Laura Ray Organizing. She’s a professional organizer who for more than 10 years has been helping companies, families and home-based professionals maintain order.

What have you noticed about the organization needs of virtual / remote workers?

While the number of home-office clients I serve has remained relatively steady over the past decade, I have noticed something else: the “life side” of the work-life equation is disrupting people’s home offices and work spaces more and more.

How does “life” get in the way for people who work from home?

One of the biggest symptoms that creep up on clients I serve is excess paperwork – mail, bills, and documents. Papers that were initially in the kitchen or originally on the living room coffee table somehow end up in the home office.

What should virtual workers think about when creating a home office?
One question I ask is, “Do you love this space in your home?” In other words, perhaps people shouldn’t just make an office out of underused or vacant space, like the spare bedroom. Maybe instead the home office should be in the dining room or in the corner of another room on the main level.

Describe some other challenges home-based workers encounter.

People need to be generous with their work-space. In the home office, clear out anything that does not pertain to work. Give it a professional look; it’s not a craft room, a playroom, a storage space or a lounge.

I also think boundaries are important. Set limits on who or what can be in your office, and who or what cannot be in your office. Create a shared understanding (with children, spouses and others in the home) based on this as a space for your livelihood.

What should people look for when hiring a professional organizer?
You want someone who does this professionally. A good clue is that they belong to the National Association of Professional Organizers. They keep up with training opportunities and professional education. You also want an organizer who has a customized approach, one who tailors strategies for you, your personality, your home and your business.

eaHELP is the leading virtual assistant provider in the United States and an INC 500 Company.