My plan, which may or may not work for you, is to first start @ the beginning and enjoy playing poker. Don't worry about win-rate, going pro, or paying the rent. Just enjoy poker because you like to play poker. If playing for pennies is less fun than not playing poker, then you probably don't really like poker. I started from scratch depositing $100 to play $2NL. Sure, I thought I was definitely capable of higher limits from the start and could certainly afford to start higher and lose it, but online poker can be tough, so just start @ the beginning and see where it leads you.

Next, focus on learning poker, growing, and moving up. Move up when you are rolled for no less than 30 buy-ins for the next level. If and when you get knocked down to 20 buy-ins, move down. The goal is to see how high you can get and maintain a long term win-rate. Once you figure out how high you can get, you just calibrate to see out how many tables you can play or stakes and still have fun. If you can win 3 times as much @ $25NL than $50NL, then maybe it's best to play $25NL. If playing $25NL 8 tables gives you half the win rate of playing 6 tables, play 6. After large sample of just building the bankroll, whether it's @ $200NL or $2NL, give moving up another shot.

It's a long process because we're always changing as players and the players around us are always changing, too. But, if you really like the game, don't put any undue pressure on yourself, and go in with the right attitude, most players who work @ it can usually be a winner somewhere and still have fun. Find out where that is for you.