There are different theories about raising kids.  And dogs.  And dealing with co-workers.

It comes down to consistency.  Or what your brain tells you is consistency.  What it REALLY comes down to is making people think that you’re appreciating them, and handing over surprises to keep ’em from being mad at you.

There’s a best-selling book about child-raising in that.  And dog-raising.  And two or three books about dealing with co-workers.  Per year.  They do a LOT of those books.