When an employee gets bored or frustrated, they may quit. But what happens when a business owner gets restless? If you own your own business, you may love your company now, but over time, even the most passionate entrepreneurs start wondering, “What’s next?” Many founders grow businesses with the intention of selling someday. Some get CEO fatigue and want to call it quits. Still, others hit a wall and realize they are no longer interested in running the firms they started.

Whether it’s part of a long-term plan or a new development, when it comes to selling a business, preparation is everything. Here’s how to make a smooth transition: