In order to win in a violent conflict, it is critical that the following principles be observed; for failure to do so can, and often will, lead to injury or even death.

1. Assume your opponent is at least as skilled as you are. By taking this position, you will not become overly confident and will be less likely to make a mistake, which could cost you your life.

2. Do not loose your self-control and allow yourself to make foolish mistakes. You must focus on the task at hand as if your life depends upon it, because it does. As in any confrontation, whether it is physical or verbal, the moment composure is lost, the battle is lost. In the words of Sun Tzu: "The General, unable to control his irritation, will launch his men to the assault like swarming ants, with the result of one-third being slain, while the town still remains untaken." Your goal is to remain calm and focused so that if anybody looses self-control, it will be your opponent, which can lead to a mistake which you can use to your advantage.

3. Continually seek an avenue of retreat. It is not your responsibility to engage an attacker beyond the point of your security or safety (or that of another). The moment you have the opportunity to retreat to safety you must attempt to do so. This is not only important in terms of your legal liability but also because the longer the confrontation continues, the more likely you will be to make a serious, and perhaps even fatal, mistake.

4. Never trap or "box in" your attacker. After all, who is the most dangerous man in the world? The man who has nothing to loose. Like an animal, if cornered, your attacker may actually become more aggressive.

5. Try to think like your opponent. There is an old saying: "Those who hunt monsters must take great care that they do not become as monsters themselves." This saying likely came about because in order to track and capture a criminal, it is first necessary to understand the criminal mind. This is why security consultants are often asked to read security protocols. They are hired to identify flaws and to recommend counter measures should security be breached. They know the mind of the criminal element--so they know what to protect against. So, while you can't be expected to know the specific personality of your attacker, you can attempt to use what you do know. For example, are they on drugs? Are they out for money? Are they gang-bangers trying to impress other gang members? Pick up as much as you can, using your training in situational awareness, and it will serve you well; for the more you know about your opponent, the more likely you will be effectively anticipate and counter their actions.