Back to Your Questions

What do I want to change about my role or ownership?

You can change what you do in the business, what you own, or both. Start by writing down what you want to stop doing, what you want to keep, and what you need from the business afterward. Those answers give you a way to compare possible paths.

Can I step back and keep owning the business?

List the work, decisions, and relationships that depend on you. Decide what authority you want to keep as an owner and who could take on the operating responsibilities. Check whether they can do the work and whether the business can still support the income you expect.

Can I change my investment and keep working here?

Clarify how much ownership you want to retain and what you want the change to accomplish. Then describe the role you would want afterward, including who sets priorities, what decisions you can make, and how you would be paid for your work.

What if I want both to change?

Write down the milestones for your role, ownership, and household income separately. Look for dependencies. For example, a successor may need time to prove they can run the business, while a prospective new owner may need time to arrange financing.

See what makes a business depend on its owner

Where to go next

If you want help comparing the timing and tradeoffs for your role, your investment, or both, see what Personal Exit Planning covers.

Explore Personal Exit Planning