As you get older you discover that there's a lot of BS that simply isn't worth freaking out about. All those little annoyances don't really matter compared to simple pleasures like a clean shave, a sunset, or a kiss from someone special to you. I sort of wish I had that advice when I was younger - or more correctly, that I had listened to those older guys who tried to share their wisdom with me. The reality is that daily life is full of situations that are designed to trip you up.
Everyone faces these challenges but it's those of us that deal with it effectively that manage to succeed in life and get the girl ... car ... house ... or whatever it is you strive to achieve.
The following are some of the most annoying and stressful situations that I've found in my nearly 40 years and how to manage them successfully ...
Rush Hour Traffic!
You are in a hurry but there's no going fast. In fact, you'll be lucky if you can just inch forward and that's causing your temper to rise! Instead of losing your temper and going into full Hulk mode, maybe it's time to call a friend that you haven't talked with in ages. By doing that, time will slip away and before you know it you'll be home and ready to enjoy that ice cold beer sitting in your fridge.
Job Interviews!
There's no easy solution to this one, but preparation is key! Make sure that you have done your research and are familiar with the company and the people you are interviewing with.
Thinking About A Cruise Or Resort Vacation?
Additionally, make sure to eliminate any potential issues that could cause you to be distracted during the interview. This includes things as basic as going to the bathroom before you begin and making sure to have a good clean shave with your Schick® Xtreme3® razor so there is no 5 o'clock shadow or stubble when you rub your chin smartly before answering a tough question.
Do I Look Look Fat in This Dress?
As Admiral Ackbar wisely said, "It's a Trap!" There is no right answer to this situation and if you don't answer you're even more screwed. This is one of those situations where you should simply pick something else and divert the conversation.
For instance, if she is trying it on at home you can reply with something like, "Is it new?" If it is then you get bonus points for being "Mr. Observant" ... and if it isn't, well ... that's a better thing to be wrong about than the original situation!
Missing a Connecting Flight!
This is one of the most stressful situations because you are at the mercy of a system that is so broken that you might never make it home. The solution here is simply to be prepared.
Use your mobile phone to track flights and know ahead of time if you are going to have trouble. You can then make sure to be among the first to grab a spot in line for the next flight and have a better shot of getting home on time. Additionally, to make the situation less stressful you can make sure to pack stuff in your backpack or carryon to make the wait easier. In my case, this means not just my phone but a snack, extra USB cable / charger and battery pack, as well as essential toiletries such as your Schick® Xtreme3® razor, toothbrush, mouthwash and deodorant.
This won't guarantee you a spot on the next flight out but when you ask the gate attendant for help, she's more likely to go the extra mile for a well groomed man than a stinky, unshaven one!