I learned a great lesson from some children one day when my very early morning flight was canceled. While standing in line to be re-ticketed, I noticed how kids reacted to the situation. They simply took out their Mutant Ninja Turtles toys, sat on the floor, and had a good time playing with them. The adults, on the other hand, were moaning and groaning about their circumstance. What the kids did was use the extra time to enjoy themselves.

You too can be creative in any airline adversity. Find something enjoyable to do instead of complaining about it. And be prepared, in advance, like the children. Bring something that is fun. Do not do work! Do a crossword puzzle, write a postcard to your family and friends, take the time to enjoy yourself. It will make the rest of the trip easier.

If you have to wait in the airport, there are many things you can do. One day I shared a taxi ride into town with a man who obviously knew how to turn problems into gifts. His flight was going to be delayed for at least four hours so, instead of waiting around the airport and having a not-so-great meal there, he headed for the city to dine at a delightful little restaurant he knew about.

Several months after meeting this person, my 6:30 a.m. flight from my home city was canceled just before we boarded. I started to wait the three-and-a-half delay when I remembered the man in the cab. I realized that I could book a later flight and easily return to my office to get some work done or even take a nap. It seems like common sense to realize that you do not necessarily have to wait around at the airport if you have a long delay. Yet many times flyers forget to examine this option when it happens.

The city of Singapore now offers a free tour of the city from the airport. Here is an extraordinary example of how to utilize "down time." Not only does the passenger get to see some sights of a country, the traveler may become interested enough to return in the future. There is no risk to either the city or the traveler. It is the "best of both worlds," which is just the idea that prompted the Singapore Tourist Board to create this wonderful opportunity to showcase their city.