Post-exit rule #1: Don't touch your checkbook for 6 months When you sell your company, you're emotionally vulnerable in ways you can't predict. The structure that held your life together vanishes overnight. It's like running full speed into a wall. I learned this the hard way and made a poor acquisition right after my exit because I was desperate to do something. I didn't do proper diligence, and just needed to fill the void. But it was a big mistake. Here's my advice: Structure your days before you sell. Line up mentoring gigs. Join other companies part-time. Get involved in philanthropy. Coach your kid’s team. Whatever it takes to avoid those long stretches of loneliness. Because without structure, you'll find yourself thinking about having a beer at 8am. Or worse, making major financial decisions while emotionally compromised. From my conversation with @Lawrence_Sprung , catch our full conversation here: youtube.com/watch?app=deskto…