Some problems in life are effectively “dead ends” that take a lot of work to get out of. Since an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, take note of these seven common pitfalls and learn ahead of time how to prevent them.
1. Getting fired
Many people worry about losing a job when things start going bad. You might get on the wrong side of the boss or realize you don’t have the necessary skills to do the work. As soon as you realize the problem, take steps to address it. Schedule an informal meeting with your boss to explain your determination to do a good job, asking how to improve the situation. Get additional training or ask for a transfer if you can’t master your current position. Don’t wait to get fired. Be proactive. Make a goal right now to always do your best in every job you get hired for. You might not love every job, but if all of your employers give you good references, you’re sure to stay on the right path.
2. Being in a bad relationship.
When the relationship you’re in just isn’t working, decide whether to keep on going or call it quits. Sometimes a little extra effort can repair a troubled pair, but other times it’s best to amicably throw in the towel and go your separate ways rather than wait for tensions to escalate.
3. Receiving disappointing health news
Most people will get an unwanted health report at some point in their lives. Whether it’s something they can individually control like the need to lose weight or a newly-discovered congenital disorder, the goal should be to stay as healthy as possible to either prevent bad news over things you can control or minimize negative effects by being in the best physical and emotional shape possible to deal with something that pops up eventually.
4. Choosing the wrong college major
After selecting a major and taking several classes you may realize a particular career path is not for you. By then you’ve already invested considerable time and money. Before enrolling for classes, take a major aptitude test to find out what you’re naturally good at or what interests you before you start working on earning your degree.
5. Buying the wrong home
No one wants to make a sizable down payment and end up in a home they don’t like. Make a list of essential home qualities you must have, such as a fireplace and a finished basement, along with a list of those you won’t tolerate, like a small lot or noisy neighbors. Then when you shop, you’ll be less likely to fall in love with a home that has plenty of charm but few of the amenities or necessities that should be X factors.
6. Making a bad investment
It’s easy to be lured into investing in a killer new stock that’s predicted to explode and make tons of money for investors.Due diligence is critical before putting money into an unknown stock, bond, or other investment. Study the stocks on a regular basis to see which perform well before sinking your money into one. Then be prepared to sell off if it begins to nose-dive. Don’t leave all the major decisions to a stock broker.
7. Getting a really bad deal on a purchase
Most of us worry about getting ripped off on a significant purchase, like that new 40-inch television you bought a month ago that blows up, without a warranty. For peace of mind, you can buy an extended warranty on major purchases. To avoid buyer’s remorse, it’s also important to compare models of things you plan to buy to see which has the best ratings and performance record, With some added thought and effort, you can avoid some of life’s major issues and frustrations, and keep yourself on the right path, far from dead ends. If something does happen, you can take comfort knowing you did your best. Featured photo credit: Pixabay via pixabay.com
