Should you stay or should you go?

No, I'm not talking about relationships.

I'm talking about whether or not to stay the course in business when you're struggling.

I've had a few local business owners confide their business challenges in me.

As a Business Coach, this hurts my heart. Most entrepreneurs start their business with passion, a drive to make an impact, and lately...with a lot of risk.

While you have to do what's right for you, I hate to say it, but there are a few signs that it may be time to exit if you are unable to pivot:

? Major market changes: if the market you're after has faced a major disruption, it may be time to exit. A perfect example is what happened to the video rental market. It dropped off quite quickly once streaming became available. The impact of new technology.

? Consistent financial losses: this one is individual to each person's circumstances. Some business owners have access to financial support to keep going through a tough time. For example, a spouse, business partner, or investor who can float them as they adjust to the market. But unfortunately, some business owners cannot rely on obtaining additional income that would help them ride out the tough times. So continuing may not be feasible.

? Resenting your business: Sometimes there comes a point in an entrepreneur's life where the desire and passion for their business that once inspired them, which drove them and kept them going, fizzles and dies. It can't always be rekindled if the business becomes a burden.

? Health challenges (unexpected or growing): Sometimes health challenges can make running a business next to impossible, especially if hiring someone to run it may not be affordable. The stress of trying to keep going can further impact a health condition.

This is by no means an easy decision. But sometimes holding on is much more painful than letting go and knowing when to make that decision can be challenging.