Which of the following could replace ‘tough nut to crack’ as used in the passage?

Directions: Read the following passage carefully and select the most suitable option according to the corresponding number in the passage.

You come across a number of people every day and many of them turn out to be difficult fellows. It is quite likely that you yourself are a tough nut to crack. How do you know whether somebody is a tough fellow or not? Just look around and spot those who are more demanding, aggressive, authoritative, intimidating, and unwilling to follow through or who are never happy. Such people are always there at your workplace and in your neighbourhood.  Handling such people may not be easy, but there are certain tactics one can adopt to win over such people.

First of all, give a patient hearing to them and understand what they have to say. If you are able to maintain your cool and stay polite and keep your conversation precise and to the point, even the toughest people won't get a chance to behave negatively. If the person whom you are talking to criticises you or passes sarcastic remarks on you, ensure that you focus on finding a solution and do not accept his inappropriate and indecent behaviour.