Is Your Exit an Escape Plan?

Do you dream of one day riding off into the sunset like you’re in an old western movie? Your trusty horse saunters off with you in the saddle, as you relax and look to the future, with your hat pushed back on your head.

Like that dream, there’s a popular image of exit: the business owner cashes a big check, takes a deep breath, and rides off into an easy, carefree retirement. While this fantasy has appeal, it’s rarely the full story - especially for women business owners who’ve invested decades into growing something meaningful.

In fact, ‘riding off into the sunset’ can be a trap. It suggests that the only happy ending is one of total detachment and instant freedom. But what if that’s not what you want?

Today’s BlockbustHER BrainteasHER:

What are the myths around exiting your business that may be keeping you from planning ahead?

Patty’s Perspective . . .

Exiting is a process - not a single event.

Whether you sell, merge, transition internally, or step away gradually, the exit process can take months or even years. The emotional, legal, and operational pieces need to align. More importantly, you need to be aligned - financially, personally, and strategically.

Are you fooling yourself believing these myths?

Myth #1: “I’ll just know when it’s time.”

Exit isn’t like falling in love. It takes planning. Waiting for a lightning bolt of clarity usually leads to missed opportunities or forced decisions.

Myth #2: “Once I sell, it’s all behind me.”

Most service businesses include some transition period—training new owners, staying on as a consultant, or working through earnouts, a contingent payment structure based on business performance and goals achieved post-sale.

Myth #3: “I’ll be happy doing nothing.”

Some women discover that without the daily intellectual stimulation, challenge, and structure, retirement feels less like freedom and more like isolation.

Now What?

Are you stuck in your Second Act?

Have you built a profitable and valuable business but instead of feeling like there's something missing, you’re feeling like there's something more?

If you’ve built an accounting firm, a law firm, a financial services firm, a psychology practice, or a specialty consulting firm that is generating $1 million to $10 million in annual revenue, you are in a prime market.

Larger firms and companies are growing by buying other firms. This has long been the case, but we’re seeing a higher rate than ever.

In a tragic twist, I see too many women who actually lose their company instead of exiting on their own terms. The exit process is filled with pitfalls and complex issues – especially for women.

I’ve built my business as an advocate, and I specialize in helping women founders transition to their Third Act – when you’re ready to do the work you’ve always longed to do.

As your advocate, by definition, I’m looking out for your best interests. I am not taking a brokerage fee, commission, or equity. I am not motivated by how quickly the exit moves or the final dollar amounts. I want what you want – and will help you get it.

Are you ready to exit your business on your terms?

That requires a new way of thinking, new skills, a simple and elegant design, and an advocate by your side. Contact me to learn more. 

How exit-ready are you? Find out at: http://she-exits.com/