Creating a Transition Plan to Escape the 9-to-5

Hi Freedom Seekers!

people often reach out to me saying that working on their own terms is their biggest dream, yet they are too scared to make the transition. And don’t get me wrong, I’ve went through this too: worrying about financial security, disappointing family and friends or even worst - failing and having to crawl back to your job you’re trying to escape.

And that is normal: Leaving your stable job for a uncertain future is tough and terrifying. But this fear is a signal that your decision is significant and life-changing.

So what’s the antidote? A plan. Let’s get right into it!

The 4-Step Transition Plan

Step 1: Build a Financial Cushion

• Know Your Numbers: Add up your monthly expenses (rent, groceries, bills, etc.).

• Set a Goal: Save at least 3 months’ worth of living expenses. This cushion gives you breathing room as you transition.

• Cut the Fat: Temporarily reduce discretionary spending (streaming services, eating out) to build your runway faster.

Tip: Open a separate savings account labeled “Freedom Fund” to track your progress.

Step 2: Start Small With Freelance Gigs or Side Income

Before leaving your 9-to-5, test the waters:

• Offer a Simple Service: Think about what you’re already good at. Can you write, design, or organize? Offer one service to start.

• Reach Out to Your Network: Send a message like this: “Hey [Name], I’m starting to offer [service]. Let me know if you or someone you know could use help with [specific problem].”

• Land Your First Client: Don’t overthink pricing—start small, gain experience, and raise rates as you go.

Pro Insight: My first freelance client was my stepmom - and I still work for her today! Keep it simple, your first opportunities are closer than you think.

Step 3: Plan Your Exit Timeline

Think of this as your 9-to-5 escape map, grab a piece of paper and write down:

• Short-Term Goals (1–3 months): Save money, secure 1–2 consistent freelance clients, build confidence.

• Medium-Term Goals (3–6 months): Reduce your 9-to-5 hours (if not possible, see step 4) to free up time for your side hustle.

• Long-Term Goal (6–12 months): Transition fully to freelancing or entrepreneurship once your income consistently covers your expenses.

Step 4: Avoiding Burnout

Trust me: balancing a 9-to-5 and side hustle can get really tough. Here’s what to do:

• Time Block Your Days: Dedicate specific hours to freelance work (e.g., 6–8 PM, Saturday mornings).

• Automate and Simplify: Use tools like Trello to organize tasks and Canva for quick designs.

• Take Breaks: Set aside one day per week to rest—we don’t want to end up in a burnout (that’ actually the #1 reason why people give up)

By looking at this 4-step transition plan, I think we can agree on one thing: We don’t jump into the unknown. Transitioning into a remote career is a well thought out journey that starts with the right foundation - and you now have it!

This Week’s Breakaway: You don’t have to leap blindly - build the bridges as you go.

Further Resources👇

For our new subscribers: This section includes further resources, that we believe are helpful for this week’s breakaway.

1. Check out this budgeting App (for step 1)

2. For those of you, who have time for a longer YouTube video: Here you go

3. Here’s an helpful article on this week’s topic

Your Next Steps ✅

Pick one thing to focus on this week:

• Save $100 toward your Freedom Fund.

• Reach out to 3 potential clients in your network.

• Write down your timeline to leave your 9-to-5.

Hit reply and let me know your next step—I’d love to cheer you on!

Until next week,

Sami