How to choose a sol validator?

When selecting a Solana validator, what key factors should I consider? Is it important to look at their reputation, staking rewards, and technical capabilities? How do I ensure that my stake is secure and that I'm not putting my funds at risk? What about decentralization – should I prioritize validators that are geographically dispersed? Lastly, how can I easily monitor the performance of my chosen validator to ensure I'm getting the best returns possible?