Just find a method and stick too it for a bit to get the method down. Negging is not insulting a girl, and you have to get that in your mind. The more you read the more you'll understand this. It's a "false disqualification" is all it is. You are creating a push/pull for her to chase you instead of you chasing her.
The prime Msytery example is, "Nice nails. Are those real? Oh well, they still look good on you." That's not an insult, but it's not a compliment either really

. Again, you can use other false disqualifiers like "I"m so not boyfriend material" or others. Disinterested body language helps here as well to substitute instead of negs. It's not that bad. Many guys have a problem getting past that.
Peacocking. sure it gets you attention. Basically dress for the type of girl you are after. Don't go nuts on this really. Just wear clothes that are stylish and fit well. When in doubt have a girlfriend take you shopping.
Make you own method later. Follow the principals of a method, stick to it, get good at it. Then worry about tweaking it. You have to practice the fundamentals first. Just like in any sport.