Loss of Control of Personal Schedule

Earlier this week I was talking to a successful entrepreneur that had recently sold his company. After the normal conversation topics I asked, “What’s changed the most for you after selling your business?” Without missing a beat he said it was loss of control of his personal schedule.

Before, he set the agenda and dictated where he would spend his time. Now, he’s part of a much larger organization that puts required events on his calendar and more time is spent in meetings. All of this is part of a process to integrate the respective companies and make sure that the acquirer receives the desired value from the acquisition.

As an entrepreneur, one of the things I greatly value is control of my schedule and where I choose to spend my time. Once you’ve experienced that level of freedom, it’s tough to go back to a style that’s less in control. Entrepreneurs love control.

What else? What are some other thoughts on loss of control of one’s personal schedule?