In stage one, start approaching a new season in your life – a year, a summer, a change in career. Realize that you need to develop a plan. Go to the drawing board; start dreaming dreams and start imagining. Come up with an ideal, a concept of the place you’ll be if this new phase in your life goes perfectly. At this phase, you probably won’t be thinking very realistically. Stage one is a time to ignore the realities of your situation and picture a life that may or may not be possible for you.

In stage two, start making lists. Draft piles and piles of them – lists of internships and jobs you’ll apply for, lists of skills you’ll master and fears you’ll conquer. Start writing emails, inquiring after the companies and apartment complexes and roommates who will solidify your dreams for the upcoming season. Continue reading →