It’s lonely at the top. Every owner knows that. But it’s even lonelier when it’s time for you to walk away from your business. Why? Because you have so much invested in your business – financially and emotionally. 

Your business is your baby. You’ve grown it, nurtured it, and watched it flourish. In many ways, it’s become part of your identity.

So when it’s time to step aside, naturally you’re going to struggle with it on an emotional level. Here are some ideas to help you get through:

Create your own vision for the future. Yes, your business will no longer be a part of your life. But your business isn’t your entire life.  Don’t forget you’re still in it.  Put your imagination to work, and build a vision for the next stage of your life.

Get in touch with your feelings. I don’t want to go all new age on you here, but I also don’t want you to deny how you’re feeling. It’s ok to admit the notion of retirement has you depressed, that you’re sad to walk away from it all. Getting in tune with your emotions is the only way you can work it out.

Return to the business. There is a business side to selling the business, as strange as that sounds. It’s going to take a lot of time and effort to sell your business, and then ensure there’s a successful transition when you’re done. Devote yourself fully to the process.

Don’t take the numbers personally. I’ve seen this way too many times. You’ve built your business, generated solid returns, and you expect to cash in big when you sell.  Unfortunately, your numbers don’t jive with what the buyer is offering.  If the numbers are what the marketplace is accepting, then take it and move on to the next chapter of your life. You have built great things and delivered value to many people.  Sometimes that doesn’t always show on the bottom line.

Look, I’m not downplaying how difficult this transition will be. It’s one of the more difficult ones you’ll make as an owner. However, all the ambition and drive you showed to build your business can translate into the next phase of your life. Keep your emotions in check, and you can make it happen.