Two wrongs doesn't make one right

When someone do something stupid or selfish, it is normal to adopt a 你不仁我不義 stance and respond with equal unpleasantness. However, you may be judged by others who don't know the entire story and attributed for all the misgivings.

But when someone does something that puts you at a disadvantage, how can you protect yourself?

1. 先發制人
Be constantly vigilant and take preemptive strikes the moment you sense something is wrong, before they have the chance to hurt you.

2. 深藏不露
Striking first doesn't mean strike-anyhow. Always make preparations and strike with power and accuracy only when you are ready. Never do or say anything until you are 100% sure.

3. 寧可我負天下人，不可天下人負我
There is really only a small group of people you need to care about: your loved ones, your close friends.
You need to be clear of your circle of trust. Simply put, the only person who I should trust and can understand how I think and feel is her - and that is enough.

While 曹操 may have said this because he's a selfish and narcissistic ass, to me this means that you really only need to care about those who are important to you.
Others are disposable and sacrifice-able when necessary to protect my own interests.
I must stand strong and protect what is most important to me.