b"Chapter 12 USE COMMON SENSEKeep in mind that manipulation and control strategies are not synonymous with common sense. These are signs of people who want to change reality and get others to adjust to their notions of reality. You can't change this type of person, so unless you're paid to hear their woes, use your common sense and keep a safe distance from them.Listentothepeoplearoundyoubeforeyouspeak,especiallyifyouhave somethingtosaythatcouldbeconsideredjudgmental.Ifyoucan'tadd anything meaningful, say nothing. It may not immediately increase or cultivate your true common sense, but it will give others the distinct impression that you do indeed possess common sense.For example, common sense tells us that all important agreements, such as financial and marriage, should be in writing. Do not trust the vagaries of time and erroneous memories.Learn all you can about any part of the universe that interests you before you die.Thiswillallowyoutocultivatecommonsenseincontext. Common sensewithout real knowledge is not even as good for man as animal instinct.Common sense is learned through experience. Your friends and family will be more than happy to talk about the do's and don'ts of a given situation they're familiar with, if they know it's for your own safety.Also, remember that popularity doesn't necessarily mean common sense.GUIDING PRINCIPLESApersonofprinciplemeanssomeonewhofaithfullyfollowstheirsetof principles rather than giving up on them when it suits them. If the person is faced with a seemingly difficult decision in life, they will refer to their set of guiding principles and simply deduce the correct action to take.Your principles are your compass, to refer to, when in doubt, when evaluating conflicting opportunities or priorities, or when you need to take a stand. They will help you define your goals and values and choose between them when you are faced with conflicting problems or opportunities.376Germain Decelles"