You have always dealt with the same difficult person in the same way, inevitably resulting in the same outcome. While this may have kept that person's difficult behavior at bay, it has not really changed anything. This individual is still being difficult and perhaps even disrespectful. You may have spent some time reflecting on that recently, and so it might be time to try a different way of handling this person. Don't be afraid to do that. The next time, demand the respect you deserve, and don't accept anything less.