At some points in a game I reach what I know is a critical juncture.  One mis-step may be the point of no recovery.  These usually come in the mid-game.

Some strategies are:

a) Castle

b) Fortify position

c) Wait for opponent to make a mistake

What are some other strategies if you just can't think a way out of a puzzle and there doesn't seem to be a piece or positional advantage?

Never give up

Well of course never give up and never surrender....but short of that....

Trade pawns?

Trade pieces?

Sacrifice pieces for position?

Sacrifice pieces to prevent opponent from obtaining position?

Which is best...inquiring minds...namely mine want to know.