Being a fan is something almost every person experiences in one facet or another. While this article is written through the lens of music, these thoughts are something all of us fans (whether that be books, podcasts, TV shows, movies, etc.) have thought of. So with that, here are my 10 stages of seeing my favorite band (in this case The 1975) for the first time.

1. The night before.

You’re not sleeping, let’s be real. You’re too excited, and you need to spend all night making sure you’re outfit is fleek as heck.

2. En route to the show.

You and your pals are all dolled up and ready to hit the road. But wait. Did you make a playlist based off of the set list to be extra sure you can sing along to every song they play? No? Well, get to it! Did you check all of the bands social media? The venue’s? You've got to stay updated, squirrel friend!

3. Waiting on line outside the venue.

You start feeling a little nauseous excitement but you’re keeping your chill (for now). Depending on the season at this point, you’re either sweating to death or asking a bouncer to make sure you’re toes haven’t accumulated frost bite. Sometimes you've been waiting so long that it feels like an eternity, but remember the goal!

4. Inside the venue.

The mad dash from the entrance of the venue to the beginning of the GA pit can feel like the hunger games, but nothing beats that feeling of satisfaction of you’re feet touching that metal gate.

5. Opener.

OK, you are probably very talented, but this is not the time or place because I am ravenous with excitement about the artist I came to see, so hurry up, please!

6. The moment you’ve been waiting for has arrived.

It's happening! All chill is lost! Chill: one, me: zero.

7. Your favorite song.

First you're all, "Wow, I must rage my face off." Then you're fumbling to grab your phone to record this epic moment so you can relive this moment forever. Then you realize you’ve got to live in the moment. Put your devices away!

8. You’re finally home.

That goofy smile that grazes across your face, the familiar ache in your feet, the ringing in your ears, the long drive home. As soon as your head hits that pillow, you know it’s all worth it.

Even if your feelings differ from mine, nothing beats that first encounter with a band you adore. So remember to live in the moment and not try to over think it! Have fun, and revel in the flory that is the post-concert excitement!