Working with others—really just being alive on planet Earth—means we sometimes have problems. Managing a business, creating software, and working with others involves challenges and requires integrating new ideas and making concessions. Anticipate problems and accept them as opportunities to prove your mettle, improve communication, and possibly strengthen relationships in the process.

The first key principle for handling problems involves sharing problems early, which allows you to “slay monsters” while they’re still “babies” and relatively easy to overpower. When you bring a problem to the table, though, bring along a few possible solutions and be ready to explain which solution you think is best and why.

Tom’s Takeaway: Don’t let little problems with clients turn into insurmountable mountains. Be proactive in communicating when there’s a problem, and be the first in line with well-thought-out solutions.