What I Learned About Selling a Business and Leading with Intention

Transitioning out of a business you’ve built from scratch is no small feat. It’s emotional, strategic, and, at times, downright overwhelming. My recent conversation with April Roberts on The Real Bottom Line podcast was a masterclass in navigating this complex process. April’s journey from attorney to financial advisor, and eventually to high-performance coach, is packed with lessons for any entrepreneur looking to grow, scale, or sell their business.

Here are the key takeaways from our conversation:

1. Build with the Exit in Mind

April didn’t plan to stay in the financial services business forever, but she built her firm with intention. Her approach ensured that when it came time to sell, her business was attractive to buyers.

“You can’t just think about the highest offer. You need to ask yourself, ‘Who will take care of my clients and team? What do I want this legacy to look like?’” she explained.

April emphasised being clear about your priorities before starting the process. For her, protecting her team and clients while upholding the integrity of the business she’d built was paramount. This clarity helped her make tough decisions when navigating offers.

2. Transitioning a Business Requires More Than a Buyer

Many entrepreneurs assume selling a business is a simple financial transaction. April’s experience showed that it’s about passing on trust, systems, and relationships. She stressed the importance of being intentional with every step.

“Be very clear on why you’re selling and what you want to get out of it. People are trusting you to pass the torch with integrity,” she said.

April’s initial deal fell through because it didn’t align with her values, but a better solution emerged when her brother expressed interest in buying the firm. By staying true to her goals, she ensured her clients and team were in the best hands—all while keeping the business in the family.

3. Your Energy is Your Most Valuable Asset

One of April’s standout lessons was the role of energy in entrepreneurial success. As she built her business, she learned to optimise her calendar to amplify her energy and productivity. She called it her “CEO Calendar”—a system that ensured she focused on high-impact activities while leaving space for rest and rejuvenation.

“Productivity is not about being busy and checking all the boxes. It’s about focusing on what moves the needle the most,” April explained.

Entrepreneurs often get caught in the hustle and grind culture, but April’s approach is different. She advocates for rest as a critical part of sustaining high performance. Whether it’s a 10-minute walk, a short meditation, or a full day of reflection, these moments of pause keep her energy levels high and her mind clear.

4. Stay Agile and Trust Your Intuition

April’s career is a testament to adaptability. When life threw her curveballs, she pivoted with resilience. Her ability to recognise when a business or career path no longer served her allowed her to move into roles that aligned with her purpose and strengths.

She shared a particularly striking story about trusting her gut during the sales process. A deal that seemed perfect on paper didn’t sit well with her, so she walked away. Within a week, a better option—selling the business to her brother—fell into place.

“Trust your intuition. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to take a step back. The right solution will show up,” she said.

5. Personal Growth Fuels Business Success

April’s journey as an entrepreneur also highlights how deeply personal growth is tied to professional success. She believes entrepreneurship is one of the fastest tracks to personal development. Each stage of growth in her business required her to level up her mindset, skills, and leadership.

She reminded me that investing in yourself is just as important as investing in your business. Whether it’s through coaching, learning new skills, or even prioritising sleep and wellness, these efforts pay dividends not just for you but for your entire organisation.

The Real Bottom Line

As April so wisely said, “Your time, energy, and confidence are the key assets of your business.” Protecting those assets—and using them wisely—can make all the difference in scaling a business or transitioning out of it. Her story is proof that with clarity, intention, and a commitment to personal growth, you can create a legacy that lasts long after you’ve stepped away.

If you’re an entrepreneur contemplating your next big move, take a page from April’s book. Build with purpose, trust your instincts, and never underestimate the power of rest and reflection.

What’s the next step in your business journey? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments.