How do you decide what to do at a crossroads in your life?

[emily_the_spoiled]

I have used a book called "What colour is your parachute?" It is helpful in that it makes you think of your choices through many different lenses and it tries to get you to consider the pros and cons of a decision.

But having said that, I have learned that getting additional education is usually worth it and I have never regretted my decisions to go to university (3 times).

[Barbara]

I never found lists of pros and cons especially helpful.
But if you really listen to yourself- you may find out that you know already.
I have often been in the situation that I tried to push myself in a certain direction with very good rational arguments and was in an in-between situation for quite some time.... and then I noticed that someone deep inside me had already taken the decision and it was opposed to the good arguments- but it always was the right decision
Trust yourself- you'll know

[Pembroke_Corgi]

Thanks for all of the helpful advice! It's really been helpful and I will definitely refer back to this thread the next time I need advice on how to make up my mind. Sometimes I just feel so indecisive!

I've decided to just stick with my master's degree program (was thinking of switching for various reasons) as I can always pursue another one later if my degree isn't quite right for the doctorate program I want. I'm almost half way done so I decided I didn't want to waste all of my hard work switching in the middle of the game.

[Catty1]

OK - oops, too late, you've decided...but in case for future reference....

When I have had a REALLY tough decision to make, like my move to Alberta some 8 years ago, I use this idea I heard about. It sounds morbid, but it really is not.

Imagine yourself at the end of your life (deathbed) reviewing your past life. Look back at the decision you made - look back at all the options, and you will know which one you will have been glad you did much later.

I did come to Alberta here, though I was in a horrible rage for the first year. But I did get to spend fun time with my sister, before she took a bad turn and died in 2006. And I was able to get close to my mom, which I had never really done because I travelled so much in my last job.

Good luck!