Okay now that we have covered "The Desire" now let us turn our attention to the next aspect and that is taking inventory of yourself.
We all know what we look like in the mirror and most of us who are serious enough to make changes know what image that we would like to have. What we are now and what we would like to be is two different realities and we need to focus on what condition we are in now. You want to compete but you have certain weak areas that you feel you might need to improve before heading head first into a prep. Or you may think you are good enough but will need an outside opinion to give you a different perspective. What ever the case is, now is the time to admit that you need work here and there. By doing so you will have a better idea how to create a program that can help bring up that/those stubborn body parts.
Also take a look at your finance. Oh yeah, this is not going to be cheap. Even if you get to land a src that can scale back some of the cost you will still need to think about all the other aspects of a prep that will and let me repeat "will" deplete your pockets. Expenses like food, vitamins and mineral support, tanning products, hotel expense if required, gas expense, airline tickets, and so on. Note; that is why it is better to start with a small local show then jump in deep waters.
Take a look at your stock of gear. Make sure you will have everything you will need before you begin. Nothing more frustrating than getting half way and find yourself needing to order such and such that might get to you or not. This is not good and I speak from experience. Sorry if I got a little ahead of myself on this very issue. I realize we haven't covered what cycle plan you will need to create to know exactly what you will need. So take this a note and keep it in mind