In a recent LinkedIn post, Mark O’Donnell discusses the often-overlooked sacrifices made during the process of building a business and the subsequent search for a more balanced professional life. O’Donnell highlights the common narrative of waiting for things to “settle down” before enjoying the fruits of one’s labor, questioning whether that time ever truly arrives for dedicated entrepreneurs.
He begins by setting the stage for the sacrifices inherent in building something significant from the ground up. O’Donnell writes:
“Slow mornings go first. Then the mid-week calls to people you actually care about. Then the dinners, one at a time, until being home for one is a notable event instead of a Tuesday.”
The Myth of “Once Things Settle Down”
O’Donnell challenges the pervasive idea that periods of intense work are merely temporary. According to him, entrepreneurs often make a conscious trade-off, knowing that significant effort is required. However, he points out a crucial omission in this common understanding: the expectation that this demanding phase is not permanent.
“You knew what you were doing when you made that trade. Everyone who builds anything makes it. But nobody mentions that it was supposed to be temporary,” O’Donnell states in his post.
Redefining Success Post-Exit
The post further explores the sentiments of individuals who have sold or stepped back from their businesses. O’Donnell observes that many do not wish to stop working altogether. Instead, he argues, the desire is not to cease professional activity but to find a more sustainable and fulfilling way to engage in meaningful work.
“Being done with work isn’t the dream. When you’ve spent 20 years building something, the last thing you want is to be handed a set of clubs and told that’s your next chapter,” O’Donnell explains.
The Appeal of “Lighter” Work
O’Donnell suggests that what many successful business owners truly seek is work that carries less overwhelming pressure. This ideal scenario, as he describes it, involves work that is purposeful, manageable within a controlled schedule, and free from the constant anxiety that can plague business owners.
He elaborates on this vision, painting a picture of a professional life that balances passion, relationships, impact, fair compensation, and personal time. “Work that means something, on a calendar you’re in control of, without the whole thing sitting on you at 3am,” he writes.
Finding the “EOS Life”
O’Donnell introduces the concept of the “EOS Life” as this desired state of balanced professional existence. He posits that for many who have exited their businesses, the path to achieving this often involves leveraging their extensive experience to help others.
This can take various forms, such as assisting other businesses in overcoming challenges or guiding leadership teams through complex decision-making processes. As O’Donnell notes, “Everything you learned building your own business is what qualifies you to do that.” He shares his personal experience, stating that his own transition in 2016 was the best decision he has made.
For those considering a similar path, O’Donnell offers a live session to provide further insight into becoming an “Implementer,” emphasizing that the skills honed in building a business are directly transferable to guiding others toward a more fulfilling professional chapter.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Mark O'Donnell on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on September 7, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →