I am clear about what I stand for in life and I am making a difference to the people around me.

Whilst on holiday, I am able to switch off from work and have no need to keep checking e-mails and/or taking calls from the office.

I have my post-exit future mapped out; I know what I am going to do and I am excited about the changes and opportunities that await me after exiting the business.

I am happy with my current lifestyle: my work/life balance, leisure activities, personal growth, relationships with family/friends.

I know the value of my business compared to my overall net worth.

I have reviewed my estate plan in the last 12 months and I am confident that I have all my estate planning affairs in order.

I run a monthly personal budget and I can easily track how I spend my money.

I know 'MY number' (the amount of money I will need at the time of my exit) and it will be enough to create my desired lifestyle.

Should I need to exit the business earlier than planned due to a change in personal circumstances, I have considered the options and have contingencies in place for these events.

All paperwork (contracts, agreements, insurances, registrations etc.) are up-to-date, documented and filed.

Our brand is known, liked and trusted; Customers are loyal to our business.

The business has a team that can share all responsibilities and is not reliant upon certain employees.

We understand the key drivers of cash flow. We can show a potential buyer that the cash flow is under control.

Good business systems and procedures are in place and they are all documented and regularly updated.

(This includes a CRM, production systems, etc.)

All paperwork (contracts, agreements, insurances, registrations etc.) are up-to-date, documented and filed.

There is a management team that is prepared for future ownership and management of the business, with key roles are delegated whilst I take the role of CEO.

Enhanced financial management accounts are received on a monthly or quarterly basis, which are used to review the performance of the business, as well as to prepare and track a detailed financial forecast for the next 3-5 years.

The business has an up-to-date employee manual and an organisational chart with clearly defined roles.

The customer database is clean, managed and accurate; records are kept and analysed and we actively seek testimonials.