Do I belong in academia?
One of the stand-out conversations that I'm still grateful for with my PhD advisers 15 years later went roughly like this:


Him: So, what do you want to do after you graduate in 6 months?
Me: I don't know. [... beating around the bush for a long time, wanting him to tell me that I'm talented, know my stuff, and that I should definitely stay in academia and become a prof...]
Him: [Not budging] So I hear a lot of reasons for basically every option. What do YOU think you want to do?
Me: [Beating around the bush some more.] But I think I really do want to go for a postdoc and try that professor thing.
Him: [Without hesitation] Well, see, there you go! If you really want it, I'm sure you can make it, but only then. YOU need to want it, not me.


The thing is that in academia, you compete with the best in your field, the most motivated ones, the hardest working ones. It's a tough environment to be in, and one you have to love. If you have doubts, if you have to force yourself to do something you don't love doing, then that's not your career.

And there is nothing wrong with that either: There are many other, equally fulfilling professions where you can make a difference for your country and society. Choose something you love -- because that's where you're going to make a difference!