Problem: How to create a strong burning charcoal fire without lighter fluid
Know that inexpensive chimney starters are the easiest way to get a strong fire every time.
Usually sold for under $30, chimney starters use newspaper and heat convection to evenly light up your charcoal briquets. You can then safely dump them into your grill and get cooking within 15-20 minutes.

Answer: Load the bottom of the chimney starter with lightly balled newspaper. Between 2 and 4 pieces of paper, depending on the size of the starter, should do.

Problem: How to create a fake boyfriend or girlfriend
Pick a name and age.
A good place to start is by picking a name and age for your boyfriend. When creating a boyfriend, you need to get the details straight ahead of time.

Answer: Try to stick to names not too out of the ordinary but not too plain either. A good way to choose a name is to pick a either a last name or a first name that is fairly common, while having the other name be a little less common.

Problem: How to be less self absorbed
Hear people out when they're talking.
When others speak to you, really. That is, listen to understand their message, not to to prepare your response.
Answer: Turn to face them, make occasional eye contact, and avoid interrupting. Try to plan your conversations in distraction-free environments where both speakers can communicate and listen attentively.