WHAT YOU GET

You've been circling this decision long enough.

A 61-page fillable workbook from psychiatrist Dr. Marie Claire Bourque. It takes you from what you value, to what to decide, to the real numbers behind it.

Should I leave? Should I start the business? Should we move?

Being stuck is usually not a lack of information. It's a fear that hasn't been named yet.

So you make another pros-and-cons list. Here's the thing about pros-and-cons lists: they almost never make a decision. They rationalize one.

The Decision & Transition Playbook works in three parts, in order.

  • Part A, What Matters. Name the five values you actually live by. Write your own eulogy. Turn both into a one-page compass.

  • Part B, Deciding. Name the real question. Get honest about why you want it. Put at least four options on the table, then try to break the one you're leaning toward.

  • Part C, Making It Real. What your life costs per month. What your business costs. How much you need to make. Then everything it touches: your partner, your family, where you live, and the way back if it doesn't work.

It ends on one page: the decision, the why, the numbers, and what would change your mind. Tear it out. Put it where you'll see it.

Every section closes with the same three questions. Which of your values does this honour? Which does it cost? What would the eulogy version of you say?

You'll leave with

  • Five values, ranked, in your own words

  • The real question, and whether it's a one-way or two-way door

  • At least four options, scored against your values

  • A pre-mortem, a 10/10/10 and a bias check on your favourite option

  • Your personal monthly number, your business number, and a Minimum, Target and Stretch income

  • A plan for the conversation with your partner, with the numbers in hand

  • Kill criteria, and the door you keep open

  • Your smallest real first step, then 90 days, 6 months and 12 months

  • A monthly check-in log and a decision journal

Made for decisions like

  • Leaving a job or changing careers

  • Starting, growing or closing a business or practice

  • Moving cities

  • Going part-time or taking leave

  • Any decision that involves a partner, kids or aging parents

The details

  • 61 pages, fillable PDF, US Letter. Type in it, or print it and use a pen.

  • 16 sections in three parts, with two tear-out pages.

  • About seven and a half hours, across four or five sittings.

  • Short on time? Sections 04, 06, 07 and 16 are a complete decision session in about an hour and a half.

  • Works alone, with your partner, or with a coach or trusted friend.

It's not for

A decision you have to make today, or a crisis. If you're in crisis, call or text 9-8-8, any time.

FAQ

Do I need Part 1 first?
No. If you've done it, copy your five values over and skip ahead. If you haven't, Part 1 is free.

Can my partner use my copy?
Each copy is for one person. You're welcome to work through it with your partner, a coach or a friend, but please don't copy or share the file. If your partner wants to fill in their own, they'll need their own copy.

Refunds?
Because the Playbook is an instant download, all sales are final. If your file doesn't open or something isn't working, email [email protected] and we'll make it right.

Is this financial advice?
No. Estimates are fine for planning. Check the numbers with the right professional before you act on them.

Is this therapy?
No. It's a planning tool. If it brings up something heavy, pause and talk to someone you trust or a professional.

About the author

Dr. Marie Claire Bourque, MD, MSc, FRCPC (Dr. MCB), is a psychiatrist who works with professional athletes and high performers. She co-authored The Psychology of High-Performance Sports Organizations: Culture, Safety, and Leadership (Routledge, 2026) with Madeline Antony, and teaches at the University of Calgary and UBC. She writes Curiosities, a monthly newsletter.

© Dr. Marie Claire Bourque, MD, MSc, FRCPC. The Decision & Transition Playbook is a planning tool. It is not therapy, and it is not medical, legal, tax or financial advice. Using it does not create a doctor-patient, coaching or advisory relationship.