Before You Leap: 10 Questions to Ask Before a Big Life Move

Some people believe that faith is blind—but I see it differently. To me, faith is informed and intentional. You don’t need to have all the answers before taking a leap of faith, but you do deserve to feel grounded in your decision. Especially when facing a major life change—like accepting a new job, relocating to a new city, or stepping into an unfamiliar role—your confidence should come not from certainty, but from clarity about what matters most to you and your family.

These pivotal moments can bring excitement, fear, and possibility all at once. That’s why it's so important to take a thoughtful, balanced approach. The goal isn’t to eliminate risk—it’s to make sure your next step aligns with your values, needs, and long-term vision.

Here are some key factors to consider as you prepare to move forward with intention and courage:

1. Clarify Your Why

• What’s motivating this decision? (Career growth, lifestyle change, family needs, etc.)

• Is it aligned with your long-term goals or values?

• Understanding your "why" helps ground your choice in purpose instead of pressure.

  
  

2. Evaluate the Pros and Cons

• Make a list of what you’ll gain and what you might give up.

• Be honest about the trade-offs—every choice has them.

  
  

3. Consider the Timing

• Is this the right time emotionally, financially, or professionally?

• Sometimes an opportunity is great—but not great right now.

  
  

4. Assess the Practical Impacts

• Financial: Salary, cost of living, relocation costs, benefits.

• Relationships: How will it affect your personal and support networks?

• Logistics: Housing, commuting, transportation, new routines.

  
  

5. Check the Fit

• Workplace or City Culture: Do you feel seen and valued in this environment?

• People and Community: Will you have or be able to build a support system?

• Growth Potential: Will this decision help you grow—personally, professionally, or both?

  
  

6. Gather Information

• Talk to people who’ve made similar choices.

• Visit (if possible) or spend time in the environment you're considering.

• Ask questions—of yourself and others—without rushing to answers.

  
  

7. Listen to Your Gut and Your Data

• Intuition matters, but so does evidence.

• Pay attention to feelings of excitement, dread, pressure, or calm.

  
  

8. Think About Reversibility

• Is this a permanent change, or could you course-correct later?

• Decisions don’t always need to be forever, but knowing your exit options helps reduce fear.

  
  

9. Talk It Through

• Speak with someone you trust—mentor, coach, family, friend.

• Articulating your thoughts out loud can reveal insights you hadn’t considered.

  
  

10. Plan for What Comes Next

• Visualize life after the decision is made.

• Consider what support you’ll need to make the transition successful.

At Janelle Taveras PhD – Evaluation and Empowerment Coaching and Consultancy, we believe big decisions deserve bold, thoughtful support. Whether you're navigating personal transitions or leading systems-level change, we’re here to help you move from intention to impact.

We’re more than consultants—we’re your partners in building a healthier, more equitable future.

🌐 Visit us at www.empoweringlives.online

📧 Email: janelletaveras@hotmail.com

📞 Call: (754) 275-8865

Let’s shape what’s next—together.

If you want some help processing your next big decision, download the “Big Decision Worksheet” for FREE at the www.empoweringlives.online shop (click below)

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