It's not uncommon for people to ask how to get their foot in the door in the entertainment industry.  It's far less common for them to ask how to plan what they'll do once they're in.

Seven years ago when I moved to Los Angeles, I arrived with three lists --- my one year, five year, and ten year plan.  And for the most part, they've worked out.   

I credit those lists with keeping me glued together through the roughest, darkest, most soul-crushing personal and professional experiences. 

I couldn't pack it up and go home, because then I'd never know if the five or ten year plans worked out.   The plans are slightly revised every year around mid-December to keep up with new challenges and opportunities.

If, by chance, you're just getting started, lists will help you to more deeply enjoy your successes along the way and help keep you motivated when you feel like you're lagging behind.

My original plan (August, 2000)

YEAR ONE
Do it.  Move. (Moved in August of 2000)
Find Representation. (Happened late --- signed with APA in 2002 or 3, I can't recall)

YEAR FIVE
Full-time writer (I was a story producer within my first year here... yay!)
Join WGA/ATAS/AMPAS (Joined ATAS in 2002, became WGA NonFic Caucus Member in 2004, though I'm not a "member" yet)
Produce a motion picture (Co-Produced LOLLILOVE in 2004, a year ahead of schedule)

YEAR TEN
Debt Free (All student loans and credit cards at zero, no outstanding credit or loans save home or car)
Earn a Created by and/or Executive Producer credit (Three more years to hit this one)
Purchase a home (Still looking forward to this one, too)