Your employer wants all employees to relocate to headquarters, 500 miles from where you currently live. Part of you loves the idea of a new town, new friends, that "new apartment smell"...Or more precisely, the lack of Chinese food odor wafting from the restaurant next door all day everyday...A new lease on life.

Should you go, even though you feel lazy and content? Should you stay, even though you're sick of the same restaurants, shops and dating pool? Is there a more rational way to determine if relocating is worth it than asking your Magic 8 ball again? Yes.

See what the relocation package offers. Moving is expensive and time consuming. You have to pack, move your stuff, insure your things for the move, put deposits on your new apartment, utilities, etc. If it's a truly great offer, your company will offer to help with all the above. Hallelujah, you're off on a new adventure.

Compare the cost of living in your potential new city to where you currently live. A higher salary sounds great, but if your new town is more expensive you might be taking a step back toward the cheaper side of life, cheaper as in eating Ramen noodles and heading over to watch cable TV at your neighbors' place. No one wants that. Especially your neighbors.

Other things to consider: Will the move represent a promotion? Will you be living in a more desirable place where you can network with others in your industry? Where would you prefer to live? Once you take into consideration the cost of living, expenses related to moving and your new salary, does it put you in a better financial position?

If the package seems low, are you in a good position to negotiate with your employer? Are you a unique fit for the job or would they be able to fill your spot with John Q. Cincinnati without having to pay his relocation expenses? These things matter. Think it over carefully. And talk to your employer. Discuss your concerns. Your choice should be well informed.