A: What’s up? You look upset.

B: I’m not sure if I still want to be an analyst. My boss threw me two thick books of financial data and other info about a company yesterday and asked me to catch a flight for a field investigation today. Then, I am expected to submit a thorough report on that company by noon tomorrow.

A: I understand, but you have to roll with the punches if you want to survive in this business.

Note: This phrase originated in boxing. It is used to explain how boxers will often angle themselves in certain ways to help lessen the impact of incoming blows. For instance, if an opponent throws a left punch, a boxer can “roll” with it by moving his body and head backwards and to the right, so even if the punch lands, it wouldn’t be as damaging as a full contact strike. The metaphor is to tolerate or roll with the hardships or challenges one may unexpectedly run into.