People avoid work setbacks if they keep complaining to a minimum, ask for more challenging assignments and request feedback rather than avoid it, writes Maurie Backman. "The more feedback you receive, the more opportunities you'll get to improve as you go," Backman writes.

You can improve a relationship with a manager you've struggled with in the past by appealing to that person's need to help others succeed, writes leadership coach Liz Reyer. Tailor your interactions with them to tap into their strengths and remember that managers improve in their roles over time.

A great cover letter starts with a memorable opening line distinct to that employer, injects your personality and clarifies employment gaps or career shifts, writes Alyse Kalish, who offers four examples geared toward different career goals. Hiring managers respond well to personalized letters and a closing that invites the next step.

The economy added 304,000 jobs to nonfarm payrolls in January, exceeding expectations and despite the partial government shutdown. The shutdown appears to have affected the unemployment rate, which increased to 4%.

Individual success relies on working for an employer who always seeks change, growth and market advantage, writes Ken Fisher. Consistent career growth also relies on making yourself indispensable with a learning mindset that contributes to the company's longevity.

Everyone has those days when lack of meeting prep, an awkward response to a superior or other missteps seem irreparable, but quickly apologizing is the first step to recovery, writes Blair Decembrele. She also recommends asking for advice if unsure what to do and doing whatever it takes to right the wrong.

People work more efficiently by tackling the tasks that reap the greatest rewards first and segmenting the day into 25-minute sprints with five-minute breaks to improve focus, writes Jim Bevin. Simple changes to the work environment can eliminate distractions that slow productivity.

While running the Chombueng Marathon in Thailand, Khemjira Klongsanun came across a lost dog and stopped pick him up before completing the 19 miles she had left in the race. The puppy was never claimed so Klongsanun decided to adopt him and named him after the marathon they ran together.