Problem: Write an article based on this summary: Place the concern on yourself. Talk about the consequences. Ask your friend questions. Offer to assist them as they seek help.

Answer: Avoid going into the meeting by telling your friend everything they are doing wrong. Your friend is likely to become more defensive if they feel you are attacking them rather than wanting to help them. By making it seem like the meeting is more about how you feel instead of that you are upset by their behavior, they may feel less stressed and more willing to make a change. For example, use "I" statements like, "I am concerned about you missing work so much," "I am worried about how much you've been drinking lately," or "I want to offer my support for you and help you with whatever you are going through." By starting your sentences with "I," you avoid placing blame and show that the reason for your talk is because you care and are concerned. People who live in the moment rarely worry about what's going to happen down the road. As such, they may have a "lightbulb moment" when you point out what their behavior is going to cost them. They may not realize it right away, but spelling out the consequences gives them something to think about, which may be what finally gets them to stop hurting themselves. If your friend has a drug or alcohol problem, say "I am worried that your drug or alcohol use will not only hurt your health, but could cause you to lose your job or even put you in jail." If the risky behavior has to do with sexual choices, tell your friend "I am concerned that you have unsafe sex with people and that you may end up with a disease or an unwanted pregnancy because of it." Again, start your sentences with "I," and also be clear of the dangers this behavior can result in. Talking non-stop without giving your friend a chance to offer input may make them feel frustrated and left out. Instead, ask questions that get your friend involved. You're more likely to get a positive result out of the meeting when they feel like they have had a say. Ask "what do you think?" to your friend after you discuss your concerns. Be sure to ask open-ended questions. Open-ended questions are those that do not seek a "yes" or "no" answer. The more your friend talks and is open to discussion, the higher the chances are the meeting will be a success. If your friend seems open to talking to you about solutions, propose some possible suggestions from your research. One of the first avenues for help is speaking with a professional counselor. You might help your friend research therapists in your area and even offer to accompany them to an appointment.

Problem: Write an article based on this summary: Fill a tall glass with instant coffee and sugar. Enjoy your iced coffee before the ice melts.

Answer: You are adding the sugar with the instant coffee because it dissolves better in hot water than in cold. If you like your iced coffee less sweet, use less sugar. The longer you wait, the more watery your iced coffee will become.

Problem: Write an article based on this summary: Add the cilantro and peppers to the tomatoes. Season to taste. Cover and refrigerate. Finished.

Answer: Then, add to the bowl with the garlic, onions, and lime juice. Mix all the ingredients together gently with a wooden spoon. Taste the pico de gallo and add salt, cilantro, or lime juice, if needed. The pico de gallo tastes best if the ingredients sit for a few hours in a cool place. If possible, use the salsa fresca on tacos, tostadas, or as a dip with chips on the day it is made. The pico de gallo will last up to 5 days refrigerated in a covered container.

Problem: Write an article based on this summary: Recognize that you have a right to feel safe and secure in your friendships. Decide if you want to keep being friends with mean people. Talk to someone about it that you trust. End friendships that do not positively influence your life.

Answer:
You also have the right to maintain clear boundaries about what types of negative behaviors are not acceptable to you. Part of setting a boundary is following through with consequences if they are violated. Be clear about what breaking your trust looks like and what will happen afterwards. You are not being mean if you stand your ground and end a friendship because of this broken trust. There are no hard and fast rules as far as how long any friendship lasts. Sometimes, friendships just end for one reason or another. If you seem to have outgrown your friends because they are often engaging in bullying or immature behavior, you may choose to distance yourself. The biggest part of self-care is taking ownership of your happiness. There is no friend that is more important than your own happiness and security. Learn to tap into your own measure of stress and see what patterns cause you the most stress. If there is a friend at the center of much of the stress, move on. This may be another friend, a coworker or even your parents. Explain to this person what's been going on and ask for his or her sincere advice. You might say "Hey, Mom. Were you ever friends with someone who sort of picked on you?...What did you do?" Recognize friendships that have changed into challenging and draining battles. Use strong personal boundaries to step away from those negative relationships and spend time with people who are supportive and value what you bring to the table.