Important context: After undergrad, I went straight into a terminal MA program at an R1. I then went to a different R1 that is well-known in my field and has decent job placement for my doctorate.

I somewhat happily did classes for another two years. Due to some events that were out of my control, I felt it best to take a leave of absence for a year. I was having a hard time due to some rejections (scholarships, grants, conferences, etc). I couldn't really fathom working that hard for something that couldn't promise me a job, or at least a job I wanted. Working for "nothing" really affected my mental health, and with everything else I had going on, I took a step back for a year.

I now have approximately one week to decide if I'm going to return, and I still have no idea what to do. I've found a job in Academic Advising, and it's fine. It pays better than a graduate student stipend, has a typical schedule, and doesn't require nearly as much mental stress as a PhD program. HOWEVER, I am so bored. I was told the job was fast-paced, and maybe it is to some people, but I am downright so bored. I also miss the research I was involved in, my department, my friends, and I miss feeling like I'm really contributing.

I only have one more semester of coursework before quals and dissertation. I feel like I'm so close but still so far.

I don't really know what I want to do career-wise. The easy answer would be to stick with my job and get paid for something I don't really love. I've never struggled with a decision so much.