10 Rules of Human Nature and Social Conduct: See Through but Don't Reveal Everything

1. Don't test human nature; once tested, the game is over.
When interests, temptations, and pressures are strong enough, most people will change. Don't give others the chance to betray you.
2. No matter how good the relationship, keep boundaries and distance.
Getting too close diminishes your strengths and magnifies your flaws. Proper distance can ensure longevity.
3. Talk less about principles, talk more about benefits.
Human nature only cares about "what's in it for me." Explaining principles is often a waste of words.
4. Help slowly, refuse quickly.
Easily agreeing makes others take it for granted; decisive rejection avoids many troubles.
5. Only the strong can empathize; the weak are only pitied.
When you're weak, bad people are plentiful; when you're strong, the whole world treats you kindly.
6. Don't be too nice to others; seventy percent is enough.
Being overly nice can turn enemies if you slip up once; seventy percent kindness makes helping you a favor.
7. Speak less about your vulnerabilities, show more your value.
Most people are just spectators; very few genuinely wish you well.
8. Say only three parts of what you think; don't reveal your whole heart.
Your honest words can easily become weapons used against you.
9. Reciprocity is the most stable relationship.
Only giving without receiving is exploitation; only receiving without giving is humility; mutual exchange lasts long.
10. Seeing through human nature isn't about becoming bad; it's about self-protection.
Knowing the ways of the world without becoming worldly, joking about yourself and keeping a low profile, is the highest form of insight.