This reminds me of something I read in the book "Kayak" by William Nealy (at least I think that's where I read it), which discusses techniques and hazards of whitewater paddling. I apply it to life in general. To paraphrase: The First Rule of Paddling is "Don't Die". When you miss your planned route through the rapids, bump off some rocks, flip upside down, wash over a waterfall, and your boat get's trapped under a submerged log, the first thing you do is "don't die". Once that option is discarded, start looking for others.