What's your DMing Rule 0?

[FireLance]

What would you say your DMing Rule 0 is? For those who don't DM, what do you think your DM should have as his Rule 0?

"Check with your players"?
"Know your players"?
"Ensure everyone is having fun"?
"Know the rules"?
"Rules are for players"?
Or something else?

Would your answer change if you are DMing for:
1. A group of strangers?
2. A group of casual acquaintences?
3. A group of good friends?
4. Inexperienced players?
5. Casual players?
6. Dedicated gamers?

 

[maggot]

Be excited about what you run.

 

[Vigilance]

Make sure when your shift is over you go home alive.

Here endeth the lesson.

 

[Clueless]

"Do what is healthiest for the game"

 

[SteelDraco]

"Everyone deserves a chance to shine, every session."

 

[ObiAndy]

That would be "My world, and welcome to it."

 

[LostSoul]

Don't be a dick.

 

[Anime Kidd]

The story and having fun over rules every time.

 

[Arkhandus]

Maintain the balance as referee, keep things interesting and fun as the game's host, be flexible, and err on the side of fun any time that rules would just get in the way.

 

[Mark Hope]

Have a good time all of the time.