Navigating Life After Selling My Business: A Golfer's Journey
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Chapter 1: Transitioning to Retirement
Having recently concluded my journey with a business I founded over 14 years ago, I find myself at a crossroads. To genuinely retire from a venture you own, selling it is often a necessary step—this is exactly what I accomplished. However, I don’t view myself as “retired.” Instead, I prefer to describe my current situation as being “between projects.”
I now have the freedom to pursue new ventures that pique my interest. Relaxation for the rest of my life just isn't part of my personality. I took some time to explore various job listings online, hoping to find something that could suit me. However, after evaluating the potential positions, I encountered a vision problem: I simply couldn’t envision myself fitting any of those roles.
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Section 1.1: Considering Daytime Employment
One of my main challenges is my schedule. I usually rise around 9:00 a.m., taking my time to get going. (Unless there’s a golf tee time, of course; then I’m up bright and early). Working a day job during golf season is out of the question. There’s no way I could manage playing three or four rounds of golf weekly, followed by snacks and naps, while also fulfilling the responsibilities of a daytime job. It just wouldn’t work.
Subsection 1.1.1: Exploring Evening Opportunities
Evening work might suit me better, but there are exceptions. Monday nights are reserved for card games with friends at 7:00 p.m. If I’m not there by 6:45 p.m., I’m bombarded with "Where are you?" messages.
Tuesday evenings are also booked for music jam sessions, where I play the drums. As I like to say, I’m the "bus driver" of our group; wherever the bassist goes, the music follows. And yes, there’s plenty of good-natured heckling during these sessions.
HINT: If you’re part of a jam band, consider being the harmonica player instead of the drummer. Our harmonica player walks in with a case containing six harmonicas and a microphone, while I’m busy setting up my entire drum kit, which can be quite a task.
Additionally, I can’t forget about the nights when the Toronto Maple Leafs play. I must cheer them on, so evening jobs aren’t a viable option either.
Section 1.2: Finding My Passion
It’s clear what I truly enjoy: golf.
I love playing the sport, watching it on TV, and even indulging in a PlayStation golf game called Everybody's Golf. This game was a lifesaver during the COVID-19 pandemic, as it allowed my friends and me to connect and play online daily while we were in lockdown—complete with constant heckling.
Chapter 2: Embracing My Digital Skills
The business I just sold, Sandbanks Vacations, thrived primarily through online marketing for vacation rentals and wine tours. We utilized social media, blog posts, and digital newsletters as key components of our marketing strategy—an aspect of the business I thoroughly enjoyed.
So, what does a golf enthusiast with a knack for digital marketing do?
Survey says: "I’m a Golf Blogger!"
With all the necessary skills at my disposal, why not? I can write whenever and wherever I like.
For instance, I could travel to Europe to explore stunning golf courses in locations like Costa del Sol in southern Spain. Wait—I’ve already shared that adventure! No issue; I can go again or perhaps explore Portugal this time.
Reflecting on my past, I realize I’ve been blogging about golf for a while now. One of my earlier posts, "Is This Ontario's Hottest New Golf Destination?", garnered significant attention and traffic.
Looking back at my Medium stories, many revolve around golf. One of my initial stories from January 2022, titled "Are You a Righty, a Lefty, or a Little Bit of Both?", is perfect for a golf blog. Another from 2022, "A Well-Travelled Golf Ball," also fits seamlessly into my new blogging venture.
Stay tuned, everyone—an exciting new golf blog is on the horizon!
Wish me luck.
Stay well, stay safe, and enjoy.
Swing easy, my friends, and keep your head down.
In this video titled "I Sold My Business - What's Next?", the speaker discusses their experiences and plans after selling their business, exploring new opportunities and life changes.
The video "What You and Your Spouse Should Expect After Selling Your Business" provides insights into the adjustments and expectations that come with selling a business, particularly for couples.