Step 1 - Is It Time?

15 Months Before “Deal Day”

I didn’t sleep well last night.

For years, I've thought about nothing other than nurturing and growing Eyeful. Yes, I’ve had the odd wobble, but most of my non-family time and effort has gone to making it a success…and now I’m seriously considering selling it.

I initially thought it was some sort of postponed PTSD following the pandemic. That whole awful year was a test of resilience, not just for the business but for me as well. We emerged stronger in many ways, so I should feel like I’m riding the crest of a wave. Instead, I’m exploring every exit strategy open to me.
Is this just because I am well and truly knackered? Is all of this an overreaction? Should I be more pragmatic? More stoic, perhaps? Am I bailing out too early?

I’ve got a horrible feeling that I’m doing this because I’ve run out of steam. Or perhaps Eyeful has “grown out” of me?

The practicalities of selling a business are daunting, too. I hated the stress of moving house and swore I would never do it again. In contrast, I'm told selling a business is infinitely more challenging, and the process is long, intricate, and emotionally taxing. We tried once before and got nowhere - how is this going to be any different?

And then there's the team – the backbone of this business. The loyal employees who have stood by me through thick and thin. By selling, am I letting them down? I feel like I’m cheating on them, and I’ve not even started the process yet! Am I being selfish by putting my own peace of mind and, let’s face it, mental health over the stability that I bring to the business?

There is, of course, an easy option. Do nothing. I could continue to step back and let Luke and Lloyd take more of the strain. On paper, this looks ideal — I could remain in the business, do the bits I enjoy and keep the asset. But I know, in reality, I’d never really be able to step back. I’d end up meddling and being more disruptive than helpful.

I realise that the reason this is so bloody difficult is because I love the company. I’ve thrown so much of myself into it that it’s become part of my personality. It's my baby, a daft dream that came true, and now the thought of letting it go feels like losing a piece of myself.

Amidst all this fear and uncertainty, there’s also a glimmer of hope and excitement for what the future might hold. Perhaps the path ahead isn't just about selling or not selling. Maybe I should focus my energies on finding a balance between my well-being and the company's future.

So, no answers as yet. I need to reflect more, perhaps chat it through with a few trusted mates, and wait for a flash of inspiration. The one thing I do know is that this is not just a business decision; it's a life decision.

I certainly can’t rush into this.