In that case, I make an effort to lose every trail interaction, then.
For the most part, I try to adhere to the "uphill has right of way" rule. But as has been pointed out, there are situations where it just doesn't make sense. And it's also the case that around these parts, and especially in SATN, it is just as likely that the trail interaction will be on a flat AF trail, so that rule is moot anyway.
The only rule that always works is, "don't be a dick." Unfortunately there are people--even among mountain bikers!-- who find that particular rule impossible to follow. I'm personally no stranger to some head-down hammering, but even in those situation, I try to acknowledge all other trail users and make a judgement each time about who it makes more sense to yield. Much like the OP, I'm quite surprised any time another trail user wholly ignores me and others (even when directly addressed) and just head-down plows by the trail interaction.