My sifu always says that I should not teach myself bad habbits.

"to strike was their mistake"

"the opponents attack is your chance"

both revolve on the same concept

never be satiscfied with what you've learned there are always to improve

I have three basic rules.

1. Control.
That means control your attitude, how much power to apply, which side of the street you walk on, the situation
in general.
2. Go with the Power.
If a kick is coming around towards your face, go the other way. Don't eat it or try to always "handle" it. If Big Bad Guy grabs a girl and starts dragging her into the bushes, and she just pulls back, she loses the tug of war. If she follows the line of the power (not into the bushes) and uses an escape technique at the wrist, she may get loose.
3. Move and Keep Moving. As mentioned earlier, don't stop to admire your handywork.

Occasionally I would add a fourth rule. If someone is absolutely determined to act like a jerk and come at you, help him...right into the nearest wall.

"it's always your turn!" (in reference to sparring)

i can think of at least 14 the primary being the best offense is not to offend which requires environmental and situational awareness and discpline over ones emotions primarily fear...

Be cool

I reckon being nervous or over thinking a big killer

Have no fear even if the oppponet is larger than you, because if you let fear consume you will undoubtedly be beat, and afterwards you face embarrasment.

=I know personally first tae kwon do tournament experience.

Don't start fights but don't lose them either.