You Planned the Exit. But Did You Plan the

Selling your business is a significant milestone. However, it’s not the finish line; it’s the start of something new and often uncertain. While most exit strategies focus on valuation, deal terms, and due diligence, the real challenge begins after the sale closes.

What Happens After the Sale?

What happens when you’re no longer the owner? What do you do with your time, your purpose, your money, and your identity?

This is the part most owners don’t prepare for, and it’s where many struggle.

Why This Conversation Matters Right Now

More than half of small business owners are planning to exit within the next 10 years. According to Forbes, many do so without a clear direction on what comes next. Even the most financially successful exits can leave a void when owners haven’t planned for the post-sale transition.

We often discuss financial readiness and legal structure. However, we don’t talk enough about life after ownership. The reality is that without a plan for the “what now,” many former owners experience:

• Regret

• Identity loss

• Boredom or restlessness

• Poor investment decisions

• Disconnectedness from a business community they once led

  
  

From the Trenches: What I’ve Seen

In my work with business owners, I've observed two outcomes:

1. The Fulfilled Seller: They had a clear plan. This could mean starting a new venture, becoming a mentor or investor, traveling, or stepping into retirement with purpose. They left the business but not themselves.

   
   

2. The Aimless Drifter: They exited without a plan for the business sale. Weeks or months later, they felt uncertain, disconnected, and sometimes depressed. They missed their team and the momentum. They didn’t know who they were without the business.

   
   

The difference wasn’t money; it was mindset and planning.

My Take: Exit Planning Must Include a Post-Sale Roadmap

The future of exit planning will expand beyond financials and transaction logistics. I believe we’re entering an era where holistic exit planning becomes the norm. This approach will address not only what happens during the sale but also what happens after.

Key Elements of Holistic Exit Planning

This includes:

• Lifestyle design and post-sale goals

• Wealth and estate planning integration

• Relationship management (with the team, buyer, and family)

• Mental and emotional preparation

• Philanthropy, legacy, or impact planning

  
  

Owners won’t just be asking, “How much will I get?” They’ll also be asking, “What will I do after?” Advisors need to be ready with answers.

What Small Business Owners Should Do Now

If you’re thinking about an exit—or even just imagining one—consider these steps:

• Start with Vision, Not Valuation: What does a great “next chapter” look like for you?

• Build a Post-Sale Financial Plan: Don’t let a lump sum distract you from long-term wealth goals.

• Think About Identity: Who are you without your business? What passions or skills do you want to pursue?

• Have a Transition Period: Whether it’s 3 months or 2 years, plan for a ramp-down—not an abrupt cut-off.

• Talk to Others Who’ve Exited: Learn what they did right and what they wish they’d done differently.

  
  

The Importance of Community and Support

Transitioning out of business ownership can be isolating. Many former owners find themselves disconnected from the community they once led. It’s essential to seek support during this time.

Engaging with peers who have gone through similar experiences can provide valuable insights. Consider joining groups or forums where you can share your thoughts and feelings. This connection can help ease the transition and provide a sense of belonging.

Final Thought

Selling your business is a milestone, not an endpoint. If you don’t plan for what happens next, the transition can feel more like a loss than a win.

A smart exit plan includes more than just a sale—it includes a future. Book a Discovery Call to start mapping yours.

Embrace the Next Chapter

As you consider your exit strategy, remember that this is an opportunity for growth and new experiences. Embrace the next chapter of your life with enthusiasm. Whether it’s pursuing a passion, starting a new venture, or enjoying well-deserved leisure time, make sure you have a plan in place.

Conclusion: The Journey Continues

In conclusion, the journey doesn’t end with the sale of your business. It’s merely the beginning of a new adventure. By preparing for life after the sale, you can ensure that this transition is not only successful but also fulfilling. Take the time to plan, reflect, and envision your future. The best is yet to come!