When we consult with a group of cousins in a business-owning family, we nearly always open the proceedings with two questions: “Do you want to continue to own this business together? If so, why?” These are the most critical questions the cousins have to answer and we urge them to be particularly thoughtful as they explore the questions together. It’s important that they not make the assumption that everyone wants to continue together. Continuing to be an owner should be a conscious, voluntary choice. That’s what “collaboration” implies, after all.