Here's how you can navigate the common pitfalls of making strategic career decisions.

As someone who identifies as a highly sensitive person, self-reflection is valuable for major life decisions such as a career change. This time can be used to weigh pros and cons, assess values, and desires in life, and help you succumb to a decision that aligns with your truest self.

The choice is very difficult to make. Yes, it is important to evaluate all the advantages and risks, but it is also important to understand why you need to change something, what will change in your life. And most importantly, do you want these changes. I really like the “5 Whys” technique. You ask yourself 5 times why I didn’t... and answering the question, you again add the question “why” to your answer. The last 5 answer will show exactly your true desires and motives. The most important thing, of course, is to be sincere in your answers to yourself.

Assessment from a logical standpoint is relevant to determining the trade-offs of the options, as there will always be pros and cons with any decision taken. Additionally, make your decision partly from your "innate knowing" that whatever path you decide will be right for you in fostering both your professional and personal growth.

No matter what path you're on, it's always good to have a support system of trusted individuals. Connect with others in your field with greater experience/knowledge to help guide your career path. Perceive their constructive feedback with an open mind and heart, allowing their feedback to sink within as you make your decision.

Embracing change means you prepare yourself for the unwavering environment of the professional world. Because the world is ambivalent, it is helpful to adopt a practice of groundedness. Perhaps, you've accepted a new job. Take a moment of break (a week, a month) before you start your new job to self-reflect, enjoy life, and embrace gratitude. Allowing your mind to rest and prepare for your new role helps you feel more prepared and ready for the change ahead.

Maintaining a healthy Life balance means adopting a lifestyle that fosters your growth, joy, peace, well-being, etc. As you navigate your professional and personal life, consider the types of rest you may need each day: - Physical, Mental, Emotional, Sensory, Creative, Social and Spiritual. The type of rest you need will ebb and flow throughout your life. A practice of self-reflection, and paying attention to what you need can help you excel professionally and personally.