VALUE PRINCIPLE

Personally, I use this principle called value principle. 

For everything I do, I always consider this - what kind of value will I be able to give the other party. 

If you start off with this mentality, half the battle is won. How can you HELP the other party instead of what can you GAIN from the other party. 

For example, if you want a job, tell the person WHAT YOU CAN OFFER/WHAT VALUE DO YOU HAVE. instead of ASKING for the pay straightaway. Even if you have to work for FREE for 3 months straight, take it! GIVE people value first before asking for something in return. 

This simple principle will help you a lot.