Planning your exit does not have to mean you are ready to leave your business today. In fact, starting early can give you more options and greater control over the outcome.

Key considerations:

• Understand what your business is worth.

• Identify your personal and financial goals.

• Consider who could eventually take over the business.

• Address areas that may affect the value or transferability of the business.

The earlier you begin, the more time you have to prepare your business and create an exit strategy that works on your terms.