We don't have problems – We have Opportunities for Improvement

Sometimes there are VERY BIG opportunities
 

Yes,   this is a difficult problem – But if it was easy, anyone could fix it and you wouldn't need me

There are times when the problem is difficult and there isn't a quick, easy fix and when people are on your back, there can be a need to remind them of the realities of life - nicely

A Short Pencil is better than a Long Memory

Write it down, record it - In a note pad,  back of the hand,  PDA,  whatever is handy.
It doesn't need a long story, just enough to ensure that you have captured the issue and that it will jog your memory
 

Paralysis by Analysis

How often do you find barriers being put up by people unwilling or unable to make a decision unless it has been verified by “every man and his dog” remotely connected with the job.
There is always have a reason why “someone else” needs to make a decision or do something before it can happen.  The decision makers (or in reality the “non decision makers”)  band together and feed on each others lack of ability to manage or to make a positive decision.  Endless meetings, reports, market research, studies, reports, trials, consultations.  Everything goes back to this elusive “someone else” character or “we need more ????? - insert anything.
You know the story.  It's always down to “someone else” to do something, ….........anything, …....just as long as it causes a delay and avoids commitment.
From your perspective, it's a “Nike” (Just Do It) or JFDI (Just Flipping Do It) and if it was your call, it would be up and running by now.  
Unfortunately it needs to be approved by others and the job falls into the  - “Paralysis By Analysis”  basket.

And the answer is ..........?
I'm sorry, I don't have an answer. 

Unfortunately, as Engineers, there are times when we bite our tongues and remember that  “We all have our cross to bea r”