Unlike easy babies, difficult babies cannot soothe themselves. So with this information in hand, I know that letting Max just "cry it out" or "calm himself down" isn't going to work. If I were to let him continue crying when he's just a little upset, he would work himself up until he is beyond consolation. I've learned to watch for his little warning signs that he's getting upset, so I can calm him before he even starts crying. I think if anything, the fact that Max is sometimes difficult, has made me that more aware of him and therefore, more attentive. I generally cannot leave him lying somewhere contently, because he might get upset and need assistance in calming down. I savor my time with him when he's calm, but I am also prideful when I can calm him down quickly by reading his cues. I feel like his temperament is helping me become a better parent. I feel that if I can handle his three hour screaming fits, I'll be well adept to handle the terrible two tantrums, the talking back in the pre-teens, and teenage withdrawal.
Luckily, Max seems to be growing out of his fussiness (which they say peaks at 6 weeks, and he's now 7 weeks). He really is a joy, even when he's a grump. I wouldn't change his temperament if I could. It's part of who he is, and it's now part of who I am as a parent.