Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) returns in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, once again fighting for her life. Her strategies for survival don't apply just to the deadly world of The Hunger Games, though. They're also great pointers for that intense competition called Real Life.
Find a Great Stylist: The bold wardrobe choices of Cinna (Lenny Kravitz), the heroine's stylist, made Katniss an instant icon and set her on fire - literally. Standing out from the crowd isn't just about flourish; it can change the balance of power in your favor. Next time you give a career-critical presentation, remember: Dress the part.
Listen to the Lushes: Katniss' mentor, Haymitch (Woody Harrelson), might seem to soused to be of much helpf, but his experience has saved Katniss time after time, even as he slurs his words. So don't discount the wisdom of drunks. They've not only been there, they've definitely done that (and worse).
Live Sustainably: Growing up in poverty taught Katniss the scavenging skills that keep her alive in the arena. She can't afford to waste anything (water, medicine, time), and whatever rat race you're running, neither can you! So be sure to reuse, adapt, and know your berries.
Be Inclusive: Katniss often finds herself drawn to misfits who end up helping her in a pinch. The lesson: Hang out with loners. All that alone time has helped them forge invaluable skills. You might not know Photoshop, but if you make enough friends, one of them will.
Don't Play by the Rules: Katniss has a strategist's mind and a skeptic's heart. She knows how to survive but picks the right moment to flout The Hunger Games' rules. On your next date, observe ettiquette to a point -- then do something unexpected. It always leaves them wanting more.
[John Lopez for Marie Claire magazine]
