The desire to improve the character can open all sorts of interesting doors. The real game is inside. All the fame and fortune in the world will be worthless if you do not grow in spirit. Do not limit your possibilities. Take care of the details and the big picture will look after itself.
Most games of strategy rely on the other person responding in a predictable way.
Some people are very good at 'pressing the buttons' that upset you. Try stepping outside the game altogether. Understand each other. Desire an enlightened solution. Do not pressure people that are upset.