Everyone faces problems or issues in their day-to-day lives, whether it's who to vote for, what job offer to accept, or how to deal with a family member. Each day, break one of these problems down in your free time.  Identify the problem and decide whether or not it's something you have control over, like what job offer you accept or your aunt refusing to get help for a medical issue. If you can't control it, don't dwell on it. Gather the information you need to make a decision. For example, if you got multiple job offers, consider your salary, benefits package, and the work environment. Use the gathered information to make a decision. For example, if one job has better pay and benefits, you might consider accepting that position. Follow through on your course of action, while being aware that your strategy might have to change as you get new information. Begin by describing a situation that is emotionally significant to you. Next, write in detail how you responded to the situation. Analyze what the reaction might say about you and how you might have been feeling below the surface. Then, write down how you could have responded differently, or how you might respond differently in the future. Make sure that all of your entries follow the same format. Keep it consistent. You might be surprised by how many of your views on things have been shaped by the family of origin, cultural group, geographic location, schools, organizations, or employers you belong to, whether they are religious or cultural. Write down a list of things you are required to believe (or not) as a member of that group. And then decide whether you truly believe those things or not. For example, some religions forbid abortion. Consider your views on abortion and whether or not you agree with it. You can come to the same conclusion as your religion does, but make sure it's because what you truly believe. One of the best ways to think for yourself is to get information yourself, rather than relying on others. Ask lots of questions, particularly in situations that affect you directly, like voting to put people in office or which school you’re going to go to. Don’t just let people tell you what you should do. Make sure that you use reliable sources when you are conducting research. If you’ve had a hard time thinking for yourself before, you might find that you’re swayed by other people the first few times you try to think for yourself. That’s okay! Changing habits of thoughts are some of that hardest habits to change. Give yourself time to learn how to resist other people’s opinions and think for yourself.
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One-sentence summary -- Tackle one problem each day. Keep an Intellectual Journal. Reexamine what you think and why. Question everything. Keep trying.


About once a month, adjust the bypass valve in to temporarily cut off the softener from your water supply. (The bypass valve is usually a rod you push in to block water flow.) Twist the intake and outtake valves to the off position, then back to their original position. Return the bypass valve to its old position. This keeps the valves in good working condition. If a valve leaks or drips, disassemble it and replace any damaged washers or seals. Once every few months, pour water softener cleaner into the brine tank, following label instructions. Manually start a regenerating process (or pour in the cleaner right before a scheduled regeneration). This helps keep the resin efficient and functional. If your water has high iron levels or other issues that interfere with your softener, use a high-strength product, or buy an attachment that automatically adds a small amount of cleaner each time the system regenerates. The nozzle and venturi valve between the tanks creates the suction that pulls water in to regenerate the system. Disassemble and clean these parts about twice a year, or whenever the brine tank gets clogged. Follow the exact instructions in your manual. Failing to relieve water pressure before disassembling the valve could damage parts or cause injury. If you have tried everything above and your water is still hard, go through this checklist:  Double check that the bypass valve is open, the regeneration timer is set, and that there are no kinks in the hoses.  Address any recent water pressure issues. If your household's water use has increased or your water has become harder, set the timer to regenerate more often. If the computer display is not working, check that the circuit is powered and all wires and fuses are intact. If all else fails, have a plumber investigate your resin tank. Your manual may provide instructions for how to check it yourself, but attempt it only if you are comfortable working with plumbing and electricity.
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One-sentence summary -- Exercise the valves. Flush with water softener cleaner. Clean the valve between the brine tank and resin tank. Troubleshoot a broken machine.


During the healing process, eat foods that are soft. This can minimize pain and promote the healing process. You can temporarily switch to baby food, break down regular foods in a blender, or simply choose to eat softer foods. Some examples of soft foods that may help healing and reduce discomfort include:  Eggs Ground and tender cuts of meats Creamy nut butters Canned or cooked fruit Steamed or well-cooked vegetables Rice Pasta Salty, spicy, and dry foods can make the pain from a cut on your tongue even worse. Alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can also increase your discomfort. Staying away from these foods and beverages can promote healing and ease pain. Dry mouth can make any pain or discomfort on your tongue worse. Drinking a lot of fluids throughout the day can minimize pain and promote healing. It can also prevent unpleasant mouth odor. Drink warm water with a few drops of lemon or lime if this is more comfortable. You may have discomfort or swelling on your tongue. Taking pain relievers such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium can ease your pain and minimize swelling. Follow dosing instruction given by your doctor or on the packaging.
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One-sentence summary --
Eat a soft diet. Avoid irritating foods and beverages. Drink plenty of water. Take a pain reliever.