I intend observing the Masnoon I'tikaaf this Ramadhaan.

Answer

There are still 8 months to go for Ramadhaan. Who knows who is alive at that time? Such long term planning is in conflict with the spirit of the Shariah. Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:

"When you find yourself in the morning, do not be concerned about the evening, and when you find yourself in the evening, do not be concerned about the morning."

Maut hovers over us constantly, calling and reminding us five times a day to be prepared for the ultimate departure from this transitory world into Barzakh.

There is nothing to prepare for I'tikaaf. Find a Musjid where you can adopt solitude and not be part of a merrymaking crowd. Spend the time in ibaadat. Picture the I'tikaaf 'tent' as your grave.