Taking phone calls, creating spreadsheets, and filling out forms while also filling up a calendar fast are all just some of the tasks that an entrepreneurial lifestyle conjures. While all the things that come with being an entrepreneur may come to mind, where it all takes place does not. While working from home may be much easier and convenient in the beginning, as your business begins to grow your business needs will too.

Here are some signs that working from home, may not be “working”:

1. You schedule several meetings a week at the local coffee shop/restaurant.

Meeting spaces and common areas at coworking spaces offer more table space, natural light, and complimentary coffee/water/snacks. Being able to cut client latte and food expenses from your business budget makes a difference over time. Most importantly, utilizing conference rooms creates a professional first impression. Utilizing a conference meeting space also gives you the advantage of the amenities that often come with the conference room reservations, such as flat-screen TVs, whiteboards, conferencing phones, free beverages, and snacks for you and your client(s).

2. Your direct network has been tapped.

Networking within your sphere of influence is so important when starting a business, but when every neighbor, family member, and Facebook friend has heard about your business, it’s time to supplement your network and gain referrals. Coworking spaces are a free tool to do just that! Working at a coworking center allows you to get involved in your community because of the effort these workspaces put into public and member events. With these events, you’ll have the opportunity to introduce your business to other members and peers in the community.

3. You begin to notice a decrease in your productivity.

One of the downsides of working from home is that you buy it all, and you supply it all. Printer out of paper or ink? Time for another quick trip to the office supply store! Didn’t hit the grocery store over the weekend? Now you’re popping out for groceries, coffee, and lunch. Not to mention all of the other unscheduled breaks, like when the doorbell rings, the baby cries, the dog barks or the laundry buzzer goes off. Coworking spaces provide amenities that keep you on task. Planning for work outside the home can actually save an entrepreneur time in the long run. Bring your lunch, stick it in the fridge. Grab a cup of coffee or water. Use our copier, paper, and shredder instead! Time is your most valuable commodity and a productive work environment can help you reclaim it.

4. You’re starting to feel lonely.