The 5-Year Stealth Plan
The phase-by-phase template for going from trapped employee to fully-funded exit, an anonymous micro-SaaS side business your employer never finds out about.
What's inside
Part 1: Your Freedom Number
The worksheet that turns "I want to quit someday" into a specific monthly-revenue target with a 25% safety buffer and a 12-month runway rule.
Part 2: The Stealth Rules
Seven non-negotiable rules that keep your identity, your contract, and your job safe while you build. Includes a link to the free non-compete scanner.
Part 3: The Five Phases
Foundation → Build & Launch → Traction → Escape Velocity → The Invisible Exit. Each phase has entry criteria, a checklist, and a hard exit metric so you can't lie to yourself.
Parts 4–6, Operating System
A 15-minute Sunday weekly review table, an idea-pipeline tracker with a 100-point scoring rubric, and pre-committed kill criteria you write while you're still calm.
Who this is for
- Employed managers, directors, and senior ICs with golden handcuffs
- People who want recurring revenue, not a second job
- Anyone whose employment contract makes them nervous about side projects
- FIRE-minded professionals who need a concrete bridge from salary to independence
How to use it
- Download the Markdown file and import it into Notion (or keep the PDF beside your desk)
- Fill in your Freedom Number first, every other number derives from it
- Complete the Stealth Rules checklist before writing a single line of product
- Review every Sunday. The plan works only if you look at it weekly.
FAQ
Is this template free?
Yes, free to download, use, and adapt. No email wall.
How do I import it into Notion?
In Notion: Settings → Import → Text & Markdown, select the downloaded .md file. Tables, checklists, and headings import cleanly.
Is building a side business while employed legal?
Usually yes, subject to your contract and jurisdiction. Part 2 of the plan walks you through the checks, and the free Non-Compete Scanner reads your contract in 60 seconds. Not legal advice.