Selling your business might not be on your radar just yet. Maybe you’re thinking, “Nah, I’ve got time!” But here’s the thing: whether you plan to sell tomorrow or decades from now, prepping your business now is like planting seeds for a bountiful future. And trust me, it’s better than trying to scramble when the clock’s ticking.

Over the last year, we’ve seen more and more business owners decide to sell. But here’s the kicker: a lot of these businesses aren’t exactly the prom queens of the market. Either they’re not ready for the spotlight, or the owners’ expectations are a bit… optimistic. So, let’s chat about something buyers care deeply about: how much you work.

How Many Hours Are You Putting In?

Buyers have one pressing question: “How much time does this business demand?” Translation: “Am I going to spend my days sipping lattes or pulling all-nighters just to keep this thing afloat?”

Here’s why time is the holy grail for buyers:

1. Time = Lifestyle Compatibility: Buyers want to know if running your business will fit into their dream life. Whether they’re seasoned pros or first-time buyers, they’ll ask: “Do these hours align with my goals, or will I be living at the office?”
2. Delegation Dilemma: If the hours sound excessive, buyers will wonder: “Can someone else take on these responsibilities? Can I hire a unicorn employee who magically fixes everything?” Spoiler alert: unicorns are rare, and hiring staff comes with its own costs (and headaches).
3. Impressions Matter: A 70-hour workweek doesn’t scream “thriving business”—it screams “this business owns me.” Buyers will see that and back away unless they’re seasoned gladiators who love a good challenge.

Why Are You Really Working So Much?

If your work week feels like a never-ending marathon, it’s time to reflect:

• Is it because you can’t let go of control? (Hey, no judgment. We all like things done our way.)
• Is it because good help is hard to find? Or maybe you’re hiring, but the revolving door of turnover has you dizzy.
• Is it financially driven? Are sales just shy of what’s needed to afford another employee? And if you did hire someone, would they boost sales enough to make it worthwhile?

Here’s the harsh truth: HR is tough. People are messy, unpredictable, and sometimes bring donuts you didn’t ask for. But every business runs on people, and finding the balance between staffing and profitability is an ongoing juggling act.

The Solution: Systems, Systems, Systems

Want to impress buyers and make your business more sellable? Get systems in place. Automate where you can. Delegate what you must. Create a business that doesn’t fall apart the moment you take a day off. Buyers will pay a premium for businesses that don’t come with handcuffs.

Remember: the less your business needs you, the more attractive it’ll be to buyers—and the higher the chance you’ll land a deal that makes you smile.