Here are some of my core beliefs which I use to operate effectively and make important decisions. (These are not so much just beliefs as rules, but let’s call them beliefs, as rules stirs up all the wrong pictures for now.)
1: Blend in. I tend to believe society functions because we all conform and agree to a very large amount of rules. Some unspoken and traditional (i.e. line-ups and calling your doctor Doctor instead of Chris). Others very clearly defined (i.e. speed limits on highways, locking our doors). When I am engaging in some form or another of social engineering* or situational mastery** I keep in mind, I must blend in. Above all. I must lead the one’s around me in that moment, to fully, wholeheartedly believe that I conform with their beliefs, that I am “one of them”. Even if I am surrounded by a group of young, male, tattooed, hardcore-metal enthusiasts. You know the type of people that like to think they’re ‘non-conformists’. I have to find a way to make them absolutely believe, beyond a shadow of a doubt that I line-up with THEIR CORE BELIEFS. There are very few exceptions to this.