I had a very interesting conversation with a successful founder. He accomplished what a lot of founders aspire to: he sold his company for a significant amount. He’s had time to reflect on the journey, and I was curious to pick his brain. When I asked him about the most pivotal decision he made, he replied, “Putting my ego aside and stepping aside.”

This founder built the company over a number of years. Eventually, he noticed he wasn’t as effective as he’d once been, and over time he realized the company might be better served with someone else as CEO. The decision wasn’t easy, and he struggled with it for some time. Ultimately, he replaced himself with another CEO (with the board’s approval). He took another leadership role in the company that was product-focused. Fast forward a few years: the company was acquired, and everyone was happy.

Hearing this founder describe his decision was engrossing. He clearly had a strong desire to be the leader. He also wanted what was best for the company, though, and that attitude won out. He put his pride aside. The end result confirms that his difficult decision was the right one.