The best way to approach a problem today is education. Teach yourself by researching every aspect of the forces and people around you. When you know what motivates them, you'll know how to motivate them: and the power will be in your hands. Interestingly enough, the reverse is also true: the more they know about your motivations, the more they can influence you. You get to decide whether or not you want to keep the playing field level, so be as open as you want.