Convenience comes at a real cost though. Sure, the traffic alert is nice, but you're constantly paying for it with targeted ads and your own habits being sold. It's not just guessing, it's a whole business model built on knowing you better than you might know yourself. That free app or helpful nudge is never really free.

Wait you had to spend that much time on it? lol I thought it was just a quick form.

Tweezers and masking tape sound good in theory but I've still had springs slip out with that method. I actually find a small flat head screwdriver works better to hook the spring into place before you close things up. The key is keeping light pressure so it can't jump away. What kind of camera are you working on?

My dad's rants about his barber never listening gave me the best opening line for new clients. It breaks the ice every time. @the_julia is totally right about finding gold in those annoying family talks. I even stole my niece's debate about curtain bangs for my consultation small talk.

Have you tried asking for a manager or calling their main office number? I mean, the frontline staff usually just have a script, but if you get to someone with actual power to fix things, it's different. I've had to do that a few times when a company just sent a form letter. You have to be super clear that the coupon isn't solving the real problem. Idk, maybe it's just me, but forcing that human connection is the only thing that works now.