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

[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!