A Christmas Gift to You

As we head into 2026, many business owners are looking ahead wondering what the next few years will bring, what opportunities might emerge, and whether their business is truly ready for whatever comes next. And while the holidays often bring reflection, they also bring a gentle reminder: time moves faster than we think.

In the world of business transitions, that truth hits especially hard. Too many owners wait until they want to sell to start preparing, only to discover that readiness isn’t something you can wrap up at the last minute like a forgotten Christmas gift. It’s something you build steadily, intentionally, and long before the buyer arrives.

So, in the spirit of the season, and with a wink toward every owner who plans to “get serious next year”, here is a playful Christmas poem to remind us of all that preparation is the greatest gift you can give your future self, your family, and your business.

Pour a cup of cocoa, sit back, and enjoy… because even Santa knows: the best exits are the ones you prepare for early.

’Twas the night before exit, when all through the shop, Not a system was humming, not even a mop. The books were a tangle, the processes bare, In hopes that a buyer soon wouldn’t despair.

The staff were uncertain, unclear in their roles, While visions of burnout took hold of their souls. And the owner in stress, with no plan in sight, Had just realized selling won’t happen overnight.

When out in the market there rose such a clatter, He sprang from his desk to see what was the matter. Away to the offers he flew like a flash, But the buyers all balked “Too much risk for our cash.”

For what did they see when they peered in with care? A business dependent on the owner’s own flair. With processes missing and team gaps so wide, A premium valuation was quickly denied.

“If only,” he sighed, “I’d prepared years before, Invested in systems, built leaders with more. Reduced all my risks, made my revenue strong, I’d be signing top offers instead of this wrong.”

Then a voice in his mind, warm and wise as could be, Whispered, “Value builds slowly: start early, you’ll see. A business prepared is a gift to behold, And buyers pay premiums for stories well told.”

So now every Christmas, he shares what he learned: Exit readiness isn’t a prize that’s just earned. It grows from good planning, from strategy clear, From building a company that thrives every year.

And he calls to all owners, both far and so near: “Prepare long before your decision is here! A business well-readied brings joy to your shelf, Merry Christmas to all, and take care of your wealth!”

As we move into a new year, most business owners across the country are taking stock of their goals, their teams, their momentum, and yes…the future of their companies. The truth is, whether you plan to sell someday soon or someday far off, the calendar has a way of reminding us that time doesn’t slow down. And while the holidays inspire reflection, they also deliver an unmistakable message: you can only control the future you prepare for.

In the exit-planning world, that message couldn’t be more relevant. Far too many owners wait until the last moment before they want to transition to start getting the business ready, only to realize that readiness isn’t a switch you flip, it’s a process you build.

The strongest, most marketable companies, the ones that command premium valuations, are created long before a buyer ever knocks on the door.

Remember, even Saint Nick knows: the wisest owners start preparing long before the sleigh bells ring.

Christmas Present to You.pdf

Download PDF • 85KB