Problem: Article: It’s very likely that a particular moment or event prompted you to feel as if you are in crisis. For some people, this can be a meeting at your work that doesn’t go the way you planned. Or, you may have had a lovely couples’ dinner that reminded you how much you want a partner.  Knowing your triggers lets you plan to avoid or counter situations that may push you into crisis. For example, you might plan group gatherings instead of dinners where you’ll feel like a third-wheel. Triggers can include major life events, such as the death of a loved one, losing your job, or getting a divorce. You might be the type of person who has a series of existential crises and actually thrives off of them. Or, at the very least, they may pass without really upsetting your mental state for very long. See if you can discern a pattern to your crisis moments and experiment with what happens if you just ignore it and move on. If you feel overwhelmed with negative thoughts, then you may need to take action. Talking with a therapist might be a good start. Sit down and think about all of the people you’ve had contact with over your life. Identify those people who you’d consider to be friends and family. Out of that category, separate out those people who you know truly love you. Do this exercise often and you’ll see how extended your support network actually is. Don’t assess the final category based on how many people end up there. Instead, focus on the quality of these positive feelings. Think about someone who you admire, even if you’ve never met them. Then, envision telling them how you are feeling and what they’d say in response. This is a great way to give yourself advice, but in a more detached sense. For example, you might express your concerns to imaginary Oprah Winfrey and guess what she’d tell you to do. This is when talking things out with another person can really help. You may think that you are depressed about a particular incident that took place that day, but it’s likely a much larger issue. Keep asking yourself, “What else is bothering me?” For example, as a parent, you might not just get frustrated at the constant stream of laundry at home, but also the inability to spend time with your friends as easily as you did before having children.
Summary: Identify your crisis triggers by examining your recent actions and thoughts. Know when to just leave your crisis moment alone. Create a mental catalog of the people who love you. Imagine one of your idols giving you advice. Dig deeper beyond the surface of the problem.

Problem: Article: Arrive at the bus stop several minutes early and prepare your bike for loading while you wait. Remove water bottles, bike pumps, panniers, and any other loose or detachable items from your bike. If you don’t, your bike may not fit on the rack properly.  Bring a backpack so you can place your loose items and bike accessories into it. You'll need to have your hands free to load your bike on the rack. All additional baggage must accompany you onto the bus. You cannot strap your backpack to the rack or your bicycle. Always wait for the bus on the curb. Do not approach the bus from the street side, because the bus driver may not see you. Never approach a bus while you’re actually riding your bike. You should be dismounted from your bike and ready to load before the bus arrives. Stay on the curb until the bus comes to a full stop. Do not step into the street as it approaches. If it’s dark outside and you’re afraid the driver won’t see you waiting on the curb, consider packing a small flasher light with you. Use it to hail the bus as it approaches. You don’t need to board the bus and verbally alert the bus driver that you want to use the bike rack. Make eye contact, nod, point to your bike, and give a friendly wave. Wait for the bus driver to acknowledge you before you step in front of the bus to approach the rack. If your bike can be folded up or collapsed, you can usually board the bus with it. You won’t have to use the rack in this case. Your bike must collapse to be the size of a standard piece of luggage. When you get on board with your bike, position it under the seat and keep it clear of the aisle.
Summary: Remove loose items and bike accessories before the bus comes. Be ready to load your bike from the curb side of the bus. Wait for the bus to stop completely before stepping in front of it. Make eye contact to alert the driver you're loading your bike. Fold up your bike and take it on board with you, alternatively.

Problem: Article: Before determining who is at fault, what the reply should be, and what solution will be provided, try to really identify with the customer.  Imagine previous scenarios where you’ve been unhappy with a business, and formulate the type of answer that would have satisfied you then. At times, clients may be very direct, while at other times their words may hint at additional concerns.  If there is question, do not guess at the client’s intentions.  Get clarification by asking a question. Sift through the email to remove the concerns from vitriol.  Try to break down the email into three different sections.  Identify what should be directly addressed.  These items need immediate and concise answers. Pick out what needs further clarification.  If there are uncertain demands or complaints, be sure to find the items that need return questions to the customer. Pay attention to any time-sensitive items.  If a customer is unhappy with their service or product, and needs attention before a certain cut-off date, be aware of their scheduling concerns.
Summary:
Put yourself in the customer’s position. Consider the questions or concerns in the client's email. Make a list of specific issues.