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What is the easiest way to know that I made the right decision?
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Dr’s Answer
Hey Rafael,
It sounds like you’re feeling a bit unsure about whether you made the right decision—and honestly, that’s completely normal. Firstly, Rebecca suggests figuring out what truly interests you, then exploring careers that align with those passions. She also recommends talking to people in those fields to get real insights. Cheri adds that thinking about your long-term goals, making pros and cons lists, and visualizing your future can help bring clarity. Both have given you some solid advice mate.
But here’s the thing—sometimes, you won’t know if a decision is right until you actually live it. And that’s okay. A good sign that you’re on the right track is if your choice excites you, even if it also scares you a little. If you wake up dreading it every day, though, that’s worth paying attention to.
One thing that might help is taking small steps forward instead of stressing about the “final” decision. Try things out—volunteer, take a class, talk to people in the field. Even if you realize it’s not the perfect fit, that’s not a failure—it’s progress. And remember, most people don’t stick to just one path their whole lives. You can pivot, adapt, and figure things out along the way.
At the end of the day, trust yourself. No one has it all figured out, and the best decisions often come from experience, not overthinking. You’ve got this, and if you need anything just reach out when need to! Goodluck man!
It sounds like you’re feeling a bit unsure about whether you made the right decision—and honestly, that’s completely normal. Firstly, Rebecca suggests figuring out what truly interests you, then exploring careers that align with those passions. She also recommends talking to people in those fields to get real insights. Cheri adds that thinking about your long-term goals, making pros and cons lists, and visualizing your future can help bring clarity. Both have given you some solid advice mate.
But here’s the thing—sometimes, you won’t know if a decision is right until you actually live it. And that’s okay. A good sign that you’re on the right track is if your choice excites you, even if it also scares you a little. If you wake up dreading it every day, though, that’s worth paying attention to.
One thing that might help is taking small steps forward instead of stressing about the “final” decision. Try things out—volunteer, take a class, talk to people in the field. Even if you realize it’s not the perfect fit, that’s not a failure—it’s progress. And remember, most people don’t stick to just one path their whole lives. You can pivot, adapt, and figure things out along the way.
At the end of the day, trust yourself. No one has it all figured out, and the best decisions often come from experience, not overthinking. You’ve got this, and if you need anything just reach out when need to! Goodluck man!
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Cheri’s Answer
Hi Rafael,
You've asked a big question, and it's clear you're feeling a bit unsure about your decision. But don't worry—there are ways to boost your confidence. Start by thinking about your goals. What do you want to achieve with this decision? Will it help you reach a specific goal or move you closer to your ultimate aim?
Next, gather information about your options. Talk to friends, teachers, counselors, or family, and consider different perspectives. As you learn more, keep brainstorming. Are there other choices to consider? Make lists of the pros and cons for each option to help you see the benefits and drawbacks clearly. Also, think about how your decision fits with your personal values. As you get closer to deciding, try visualizing the possible outcomes. Can you picture both the good and the bad results?
Once you've gathered all your information and thought it through, choose the option that best matches your goals, values, and what might happen. Then, take action. Trust yourself and avoid second-guessing your choice.
Remember, decisions are not set in stone. Your choice will lead to new experiences and may change your goals. It's okay if you need to adjust your path. Many successful people have changed directions to find what suits them best. Keep moving forward and keep learning! You'll make the right decision for you with the information you have. You've got this!
You've asked a big question, and it's clear you're feeling a bit unsure about your decision. But don't worry—there are ways to boost your confidence. Start by thinking about your goals. What do you want to achieve with this decision? Will it help you reach a specific goal or move you closer to your ultimate aim?
Next, gather information about your options. Talk to friends, teachers, counselors, or family, and consider different perspectives. As you learn more, keep brainstorming. Are there other choices to consider? Make lists of the pros and cons for each option to help you see the benefits and drawbacks clearly. Also, think about how your decision fits with your personal values. As you get closer to deciding, try visualizing the possible outcomes. Can you picture both the good and the bad results?
Once you've gathered all your information and thought it through, choose the option that best matches your goals, values, and what might happen. Then, take action. Trust yourself and avoid second-guessing your choice.
Remember, decisions are not set in stone. Your choice will lead to new experiences and may change your goals. It's okay if you need to adjust your path. Many successful people have changed directions to find what suits them best. Keep moving forward and keep learning! You'll make the right decision for you with the information you have. You've got this!
Updated
Maureen’s Answer
Rafael this is the beginning of the rest of your life!
The great thing about a career is that the career itself will take you on other paths in life and may lead you to a very different career.
I began as an Emergency Room Registered Nurse where I worked for 3 years in 3 different emergency departments in 2 different states.
At that point, I wanted to get off the 11pm to 7:30am night shift in the ED. I could not find an ED job so, I began working in a MICU/CCU in a major medical center in Chicago working mostly days rotating to the night shift with 3 weekends off a month (most inpatient nurses work every other weekend). I loved the change! I stayed in MICU/CCU becoming a charge nurse, preceptor, and being our nominee for Nurse of the Year. Many of my fellow MICU/CCU nurses were going back to graduate school for a Master's in Nursing degree. I got an MS in Nursing and then became the Assistant Unit Leader of the MICU/CCU, then the Unit Leader. I had 3 children and worked in the College of Nursing with my MS. I then went back to school for a certification as an Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) which my employer paid for. I have been an ANP for 26 years and I love it! In healthcare, you can take many different paths, see the world, work locums tenens (temporary assignment) jobs. The world is yours Rafael, dip your toe in the water!
If you are interested in healthcare, volunteer in a hospital or clinic. The exposure with help you decide if healthcare is for you. That's how I got started!
The great thing about a career is that the career itself will take you on other paths in life and may lead you to a very different career.
I began as an Emergency Room Registered Nurse where I worked for 3 years in 3 different emergency departments in 2 different states.
At that point, I wanted to get off the 11pm to 7:30am night shift in the ED. I could not find an ED job so, I began working in a MICU/CCU in a major medical center in Chicago working mostly days rotating to the night shift with 3 weekends off a month (most inpatient nurses work every other weekend). I loved the change! I stayed in MICU/CCU becoming a charge nurse, preceptor, and being our nominee for Nurse of the Year. Many of my fellow MICU/CCU nurses were going back to graduate school for a Master's in Nursing degree. I got an MS in Nursing and then became the Assistant Unit Leader of the MICU/CCU, then the Unit Leader. I had 3 children and worked in the College of Nursing with my MS. I then went back to school for a certification as an Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) which my employer paid for. I have been an ANP for 26 years and I love it! In healthcare, you can take many different paths, see the world, work locums tenens (temporary assignment) jobs. The world is yours Rafael, dip your toe in the water!
Maureen recommends the following next steps:
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Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. The most important is to find out what careers you have interest.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
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Alex’s Answer
I recently read a book by Bob Lotich called Simple Money Rich Life. In it he talks about how to find your calling.
Before I get into what he shares I want to reiterate some of the thoughts that have already been shared. Often times there is not just one thing that you are “meant” to do. Life is meant to be abundant! Learning new skills is what makes life so enjoyable and exciting! So the simple answer to your question is the best way to know if you made the right decision is that you are learning! No decision is wasted if you progress and learn from it. Your decision to go into a certain career can be a stepping stone to something even better in the future. You may decide to go into a certain career and after being in that career you learn it isn’t really your thing. That’s ok, it has helped you develop certain skills, abilities, and connected you with people that can help propel you to a career more suited for you! Like when Thomas Edison was asked about his 10000 “failed” attempts at creating a light bulb, he replied that he did not fail, he just found out 10000 ways that wouldn’t work. Don’t get so fixated on the destination that you miss out on enjoying the journey!
That being said, here are a couple questions that Bob Lotich shares that I think may be helpful for you to consider:
What comes easier to you than most others?
What feels like work to others but is fun for you?
What can you do that leaves you wondering why others aren’t good at it?
Take some time to reflect on these questions and even ask a close friend or family member how they would answer those questions in regard to you. You will find this to be very insightful. The answers to these questions can help guide you to making the right decision for your future career! Good luck!
Before I get into what he shares I want to reiterate some of the thoughts that have already been shared. Often times there is not just one thing that you are “meant” to do. Life is meant to be abundant! Learning new skills is what makes life so enjoyable and exciting! So the simple answer to your question is the best way to know if you made the right decision is that you are learning! No decision is wasted if you progress and learn from it. Your decision to go into a certain career can be a stepping stone to something even better in the future. You may decide to go into a certain career and after being in that career you learn it isn’t really your thing. That’s ok, it has helped you develop certain skills, abilities, and connected you with people that can help propel you to a career more suited for you! Like when Thomas Edison was asked about his 10000 “failed” attempts at creating a light bulb, he replied that he did not fail, he just found out 10000 ways that wouldn’t work. Don’t get so fixated on the destination that you miss out on enjoying the journey!
That being said, here are a couple questions that Bob Lotich shares that I think may be helpful for you to consider:
What comes easier to you than most others?
What feels like work to others but is fun for you?
What can you do that leaves you wondering why others aren’t good at it?
Take some time to reflect on these questions and even ask a close friend or family member how they would answer those questions in regard to you. You will find this to be very insightful. The answers to these questions can help guide you to making the right decision for your future career! Good luck!
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Kristina’s Answer
The easiest way to know if you made the right decision is to check in with yourself and how you feel about it. If your choice aligns with your values, interests, and long-term goals, and it excites or challenges you in a good way, you’re likely on the right path. No decision is ever perfect, and doubt is normal, but if you find yourself growing, learning, and feeling motivated, that’s a strong sign you made the right choice. Also, remember that decisions aren’t always final—if something doesn’t feel right over time, you can adjust and make new choices based on what you learn. Trust yourself, be open to change, and focus on what truly matters to you!
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James’s Answer
Life is an expedition, filled with twists and turns. Even what a job or profession is changes as technology and culture change. So...
1) do take the time to deeply consider pros and cons before making a decision
2) do give priority to what makes you feel happy and proud in your work over money
3) realize that if things do not turn out as you had expected that is not a "failure" - it is a learning experience
4) do try out things that may seem odd or unusual
5) understand that your sense of happiness and fulfillment are hugely impacted by your environment and coworkers. You might find you are in the right job, but in the wrong organization.
You will know you made the right decision only in retrospect. And in the context of careers, there are probably several good decisions one might make.
Realize that everyone in every profession has good days and bad days. Having a rough week or even month doesn't mean you made a bad choice. If you remain unhappy, then you should strongly consider changing course.
1) do take the time to deeply consider pros and cons before making a decision
2) do give priority to what makes you feel happy and proud in your work over money
3) realize that if things do not turn out as you had expected that is not a "failure" - it is a learning experience
4) do try out things that may seem odd or unusual
5) understand that your sense of happiness and fulfillment are hugely impacted by your environment and coworkers. You might find you are in the right job, but in the wrong organization.
You will know you made the right decision only in retrospect. And in the context of careers, there are probably several good decisions one might make.
Realize that everyone in every profession has good days and bad days. Having a rough week or even month doesn't mean you made a bad choice. If you remain unhappy, then you should strongly consider changing course.
Updated
Susana’s Answer
Hi Rafael,
The easiest way to know if you made the right decision is to check how you feel internally and externally after making it. Here are some simple indicators that can help:
1. You Feel a Sense of Peace
Even if it's challenging, you feel calm rather than anxious.
Your mind isn't constantly doubting or second-guessing the choice.
You might feel nervous but still confident that it’s the right path.
2. It Aligns with Your Values and Goals
The decision supports your long-term vision and core beliefs.
It moves you closer to who you want to become.
3. You Don’t Feel the Need to Justify It
You don’t feel pressured to explain or defend your choice to others.
It just makes sense to you, even if others don’t fully understand.
4. Challenges Feel Worth It
Every path has difficulties, but you feel motivated to push through.
Instead of feeling trapped, you see growth and learning ahead.
5. Your Instincts Keep Confirming It
Your gut feeling (intuition) keeps telling you it’s right.
Even when doubts come, something deep inside says, “This is it.”
6. It Feels Like the Next Logical Step
The choice fits naturally into your life’s journey.
It feels like it’s leading you somewhere important.
7. Regret is Absent or Minimal
You don’t feel a strong urge to turn back.
You may have “what if” thoughts, but they don’t overwhelm you.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure, give it time. The right decisions tend to strengthen over time, while the wrong ones create lingering discomfort or regret.
Thanks for your question.
The easiest way to know if you made the right decision is to check how you feel internally and externally after making it. Here are some simple indicators that can help:
1. You Feel a Sense of Peace
Even if it's challenging, you feel calm rather than anxious.
Your mind isn't constantly doubting or second-guessing the choice.
You might feel nervous but still confident that it’s the right path.
2. It Aligns with Your Values and Goals
The decision supports your long-term vision and core beliefs.
It moves you closer to who you want to become.
3. You Don’t Feel the Need to Justify It
You don’t feel pressured to explain or defend your choice to others.
It just makes sense to you, even if others don’t fully understand.
4. Challenges Feel Worth It
Every path has difficulties, but you feel motivated to push through.
Instead of feeling trapped, you see growth and learning ahead.
5. Your Instincts Keep Confirming It
Your gut feeling (intuition) keeps telling you it’s right.
Even when doubts come, something deep inside says, “This is it.”
6. It Feels Like the Next Logical Step
The choice fits naturally into your life’s journey.
It feels like it’s leading you somewhere important.
7. Regret is Absent or Minimal
You don’t feel a strong urge to turn back.
You may have “what if” thoughts, but they don’t overwhelm you.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure, give it time. The right decisions tend to strengthen over time, while the wrong ones create lingering discomfort or regret.
Thanks for your question.