I was talking with a stranger at a party a few years ago and somehow we got on the subject of shaving with straight razors. (I can't imagine how because he was wearing a full beard that obviously hadn't been cut in years.) Anyway, he told me that he used a straight before he quit shaving all together. His useful tip was, "learn to shave your left cheek with your left hand and vice versa." It really is easier that way.
The first time you try it laying razor to flesh with your left hand is scary, but if you keep it up for a few weeks it helps a lot.
I've been using my straight every day for about 10 years now and still have my ears, nose, and lips intact.