Mindset – The First Step to Self-Protection

I remember the first time the hair stood on the back of my neck because I thought I was being followed. I remember the feeling in the pit of my stomach as I quickened my pace. My palms started to sweat, and I became intensely aware of my surroundings and people, or lack thereof. I remember the relief of being able to get into my car and lock the doors, finally feeling a sense of security. I know I’m not alone in this type of experience, as I’ve had friends and other women who have told me similar stories.

I could be off base here, but I’m fairly certain if you took a poll, most women would say they have a need to learn or practice self-defense. People are crazy, and the world is full of people.

Self-defense isn’t only using tools to protect oneself, it’s also a mindset. A great first step is to practice situational awareness. This simply means being aware of your surroundings. For example, did you notice the shirt color of person who parked next to you at the shopping market? Was anyone wondering around the parking lot? Being alert and aware makes you better prepared if a problem should arise and less of a target.

I don’t think we talk enough about the heaviness of carrying a firearm (and I don’t mean the weight of the firearm). It’s a big decision and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. It can be really intimidating no matter what your experience level. When I first started to conceal carry, I carried my firearm unloaded with no ammunition just to get used to having it on me. (There is this whole phase of thinking everyone knows you have a firearm on you and they can see it, that everyone experiences and gets past just FYI)

If you’re not ready to carry a firearm for personal protection, I want to be the first to say bravo for understanding yourself and the seriousness of that decision. We at SLG, want to empower you to make your own decision and assist you in learning more.

A great self-protection solution for you would be not only practicing situational awareness, but also pepper spray. I’ve never been pepper sprayed, but I have touched my eyes after chopping jalapenos and hear it’s a similar experience. I have carried pepper spray on many college campuses and to concerts because it’s a great tool that has given me the assurance that I am able to defend myself if the situation arises.

If you’re interested in learning more about pepper spray, check out the Facebook Live we did with our friends a Sabre, the experts in pepper spray. They’re the leading choice of law enforcement agencies in the country for pepper spray products. Or browse their website for informational videos or to find the products mentioned in the Facebook Live. They have a fantastic FAQ and collection of state laws surrounding the use and carry of pepper spray.

Like I said before, self-protection isn’t just using tools to protect yourself, it’s a mindset. Please think about the first steps you can take today to be better prepared.  What can you do to improve your mindset?