In the past week, I’ve had a common theme conversation with three current or former business owners/leaders who reached a milestone of business accomplishment.  Their investment of time and money grew to a point where they were satisfied with the results but weren’t sure what to do next…with themselves.

As far as the business goes, three typical choices are:

•Sell it?

•Continue to own it but let someone else run it?

•Continue to own, lead it and grow it some more (because they didn’t know what else to do with themselves).

Owning a business is like constantly nurturing a very needy child.  You develop an attachment that often rivals the one with your biological children if you’re not careful.  It’s only natural that it becomes hard to let go.

The bigger question is, what do owners do next?

The traits that make them successful business owners don’t translate well to slowing down or retirement.

If not being content with status quo is a common driver, how do you flip a switch and suddenly become content?

I don’t think you do.

Successful leaders translate another common trait from business to personal life, adapting.  When market conditions shift, you’ve taken the time to plan out what next looks like.  You shift resources, emphasis and effort.

I’d suggest these successful friends and associates adapt and prepare themselves for their future by looking ahead, planning out their personal situation and paying attention to their family in retirement.  Recognize why they started or owned their business in the first place.  Whether independence, autonomy, financial freedom or making a dent in the universe, once accomplished, move on.

Mentor, set up your favorite partner for success or find a new hobby.

First world problems one friend said.

Agreed.  Now go solve it!

Have a blessed weekend!