Beyond the balance sheet

Every entrepreneur’s journey is unique, yet one decision unites them all: the choice to step away from the business they built. This pivotal moment is more than just a financial transaction – it’s deeply personal, shaped by ambitions, family priorities, and a vision for the future.

In our report, Beyond the balance sheet, we reveal:

The motivations that drive business exits.
The challenges of preparing for this transformative milestone.
How life unfolds after an exit, offering new purpose and opportunities.

Discover insights from UK entrepreneurs who have navigated this critical moment, with practical takeaways to help you plan your own exit journey.

Access the report now

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The turning point: Understanding entrepreneurial motivations

Entrepreneurs often find their businesses to be more than just a source of income – it’s an extension of their passion and ambition. However, as life changes, many face the pivotal decision of whether to stay or exit.

In this chapter, we explore the personal, emotional, and external factors that drive entrepreneurs to either remain invested or step away. From family priorities to the pursuit of new challenges, the motivations are complex and deeply personal.

Discover:

Why entrepreneurs decide to exit: personal aspirations, family priorities, and market dynamics.
Top triggers for stepping away, from achieving milestones to finding new challenges.
Real-life stories from entrepreneurs who faced this decision.

Our research reveals that exiting a business is rarely for just one reason. Entrepreneurs shared multiple factors driving their decision:

56%

Emotional and motivational factors

44%

Personal wellbeing and family considerations

44%

External influences

35%

Business performance and needs

The exit journey: Preparing for the moment that changes everything

Entrepreneurs often describe their businesses as an extension of themselves, so stepping away can feel like losing a part of their identity. This emotional attachment creates a spectrum of feelings, from pride and relief to anxiety and loss.

Explore:

How to prepare your business for a smooth transition: building the right team and ensuring continuity.
Emotional and practical challenges during due diligence and negotiations.
Lessons from those who successfully navigated their exits.

52%

feel anxious about their future exit

Exit anxiety: The gender gap

78%

of female entrepreneurs admitted to feeling anxious about the process

38%

of male entrepreneurs felt the same way

Beyond the exit: Redefining life and purpose

The exit may mark the end of one chapter, but it’s just the beginning of another. Many entrepreneurs find themselves rediscovering passions, reconnecting with family, and redefining their purpose after stepping away from their business.

This chapter delves into the emotional aftermath of an exit and how entrepreneurs can prepare to embrace this new chapter of life with confidence.

Learn:

Rediscover your purpose: From reconnecting with family to launching new ventures.
Insights into life after the sale, including mentorship, philanthropy, and personal growth.
Practical advice for shaping your next chapter.

Life after exit: How prepared were those we interviewed?

How we can support you

Amidst the flurry of decisions involved in a business exit, having a dedicated private banker to handle your financial affairs can be a game-changer.

Your private banker becomes your trusted ally, understanding your unique aspirations and introducing expert wealth planning and investment colleagues at the right time, to help craft a tailor-made financial plan that aligns with your goals.

From evaluating investment options to wealth preservation, working with us can simplify the complexities, leaving you with peace of mind to focus on the journey ahead.

Find out more about our business exit services