How can one stop the daily, annoying thoughts about marriage and when it will happen, knowing that the prospective marriage still needs preparations that will take about a year?

Thinking about marriage and striving to achieve it is a good and recommended act, especially in times of tribulation, as it helps a person remain chaste and avoid missteps. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, encouraged marriage by saying: "O young men, whoever among you can afford to marry, let him do so, for it helps him lower his gaze and guard his modesty. And whoever cannot afford to marry, let him fast, for it will be a shield for him." (Narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Therefore, striving to achieve marriage to keep oneself chaste through lawful means is a type of jihad in the way of Allah. However, excessive thinking that might negatively impact one's life should be avoided. What helps in this regard is reliance on Allah and trust in His decree and destiny, along with frequent remembrance of Allah and seeking His help, knowing that whatever Allah wills happens, and whatever He does not will does not happen.