I judge my program by more than the mirror. My logbook, energy in the gym, joint comfort, and how consistently I can train all matter. If those are moving in the right direction, I don't feel the need to reinvent my routine every month.

16 weeks is my sweet spot!

For a first show, I’d build in a bigger buffer. Every body responds differently, and you don't want to sacrifice muscle just because the show date is getting close.