These are the guidelines and truths that I have found to be self-evident.

1. Don't rule out the possibility the other person is simply an asshole. Don't try to find excuses for what they did or make it partly your fault.

2. Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they aren't out to get you. Sometimes Paranoia is just good planning.

3. What's the worst thing that could happen? Imagine it, flirt with it, just prevent it.

4. If at first you don't succeed, destroy all evidence you ever tried.

5. When all else fails, wreck everything around you and hope you're somewhere else when it all goes "Kablooey!!"

6. No good deed ever goes unpunished.

7. Only fight those battles you can win. Don't waste energy on lost causes.