Well, I can recommend the book "How to win friends and influence people". I can echo other commenters have already said and suggest. 1. Say less. 2. Listen mo

Well, I can recommend the book "How to win friends and influence people". I can echo other commenters have already said and suggest. 1. Say less. 2. Listen more. 3. Think of everything from the other people's point of view and honestly consider what is best for them. I think one thing you said was quite telling: "you go into a meeting with your mind made up". I'd suggest trying to being open to having your mind changed is a good first step too ;)