Step 1: Define your core values.
List each of your values and define them (specifically), based on what they mean to you in your current stage of life.
Although our core values don't tend to change massively, there are minor tweaks/changes to their definitions over time. You learn and grow over time (which will sometimes tweak how you define a value).
And one facet of your definition could become more important than another, based on current circumstances.
Step 2: Prioritize your values.
You can’t prioritize every value equally all of the time. Because values will bump up against one another.
Let's say three of your core values are: achievement, family, and being present.
Two years ago, achievement might have been #1. And your vision + goals have reflected that.
But now, with a growing kid or aging parent (or your own depleted energy in this "season" of life), maybe presence or enjoyment needs to move up.
Determine what’s most important right now. Prioritize accordingly.
Step 3: Name competing interests & tradeoffs.
You have options. You could continue as originally planned, or you could do something else (or several something else's).
List all of your options, and then get specific about what each path looks and feels like. This includes being real about the tradeoffs for each path—financial, emotional, physical, etc.
Step 4: Feel into each option.
Once you've listed all of your options and the tradeoffs for each, it's time to consider each one (individually).
Don't just use your rational brain for this (obsessing over each pro/con). Instead, feel into each option (separately).
What will work and life FEEL like? What do you dread? What feels like relief?
Pay attention to how your body reacts to each one.
Step 5: Decide, based on current preferences.
Based on the above, make your decision knowing this isn’t “forever”.
It's what you've determined is best for right now, knowing that it will likely change again in the future (and that's okay).
