You set up work routines and schedules that help you be productive. Your surroundings are familiar and comfortable. And, after awhile, it might get a bit too comfortable and well, maybe even boring. Working at home can sometimes mean getting stuck in a rut, just like any job. Fortunately, you have some freedom that will help you get out of the rut quickly. One of the easiest and most fun ways to do so is to just get out of the house.

Most people who work at home can work anywhere, or almost anywhere. So, shake up your routine. Doing something different can ignite your creativity and re-energize you. Here are some ways to get out of the house when you work at home:

Go outside When the weather is nice, just take some work outside. If you have a patio, balcony, front porch or backyard, you can enjoy the outdoors almost anytime. Take your laptop or a notebook or a whiteboard or whatever project is easily transported and cup of tea or coffee outside. The fresh air will do you good!

Go to the library A trip to the library is a great way to do some research or concentrate without all the distractions of home. You can browse books and periodicals for ideas and inspiration. And, don’t overlook the help available there. Talk to your librarian about what you are currently working on. They are priceless resources.

Go to a coffee shop Coffee shops can be a great place to take your daily, or even weekly coffee break. If you can find one with outdoor tables, even better. Call a friend to meet you there for some downtime, or better still, ask one of your Facebook or Twitter friends to meet you there in person. That’s a great way to build on those online connections. But you can also go alone and fortunately, many offer free Wi-Fi, so you can write or browse to your heart’s content.

Go to lunch Networking lunches are an easy way to get out of the house. Many networking groups meet monthly for lunches and programs. Networking is an excellent marketing tool. Find and join a group that provides relevant programs and then get involved. You can also call a friend, a client or even a prospective client and schedule a lunch date.

Go to the mall But not to shop! Leave your credit cards at home, but wear your walking shoes and get in a little exercise while you check out the displays, ad and signage. How are they appealing to their customer? Analyze their visual marketing techniques. Walk into a couple of stores and see what their customer service experience is like. What can you learn that can help you market your business?

Visit your Inspiration Places Everyone has special places we find inspiring; places that speak to us and encourage us. For some, it’s a museum or art gallery. For others, it’s a ball field or busy city street. There’s no right or wrong in what inspires you, ignites your passions, or fires you up. Just be sure to have a list of those places handy and revisit them when you’ve hit a wall in your creativity or your productivity.

Working from home has many perks and benefits, but staying there all the time can lead to boredom, burnout and the blues. Scheduling regular outings can help keep you motivated and productive. So, go ahead and get out of the house—today!

Ready to start working from home? Work at Home Business Ideas can help!