Pin

I once asked a cohort, in the family safety space, while doing a podcast together, what they thought it would take for people to prioritize their personal safety (and preparedness). Of course, I paraphrase now; but… They said they believed it would not be until something bad happened to them that people would start to take their safety more seriously.

At the time, I did not want to accept their answer. Fast forward and now I have to say I mostly believe the same thing. Until something terrible or tragic happens, it seems one’s own safety (or overall preparedness) is seldom given more than a passing thought and no more than minimal effort at best. Am I wrong?

In this post, we talk about many of the “reasons” folks seem to come up with as to why they do not prioritize their personal safety and preparedness and share how to overcome most of those “reasons.”

The “Reasons”

Which of the following do you use or have you used as ‘reasons’ not to prioritize your personal safety and preparedness and that of your loved ones?

Pretend / Ignore

Some folks opt to pretend like bad things never happen or they choose to ignore the fact that they do. They do not want to think about any of it. They truly conduct themselves and their lives like ostriches with their heads in the sand. It’s like believing that, if you close your eyes, the bad things in front of you do not exist.

I once had a co-worker tell me they were not interested in knowing anything about self-defense or personal safety. They went on to explain that they chose to move out to a “safe” town and neighborhood, so they would not have to deal with any of it. They simply had no interest in knowing anything about crimes or subsequently learning to be better prepared to deal with them. Their philosophy was that if they did not know about them then they could continue to live in their little ‘safe’ sphere they had worked to create for themselves and their family.

Ironically, this same individual also shared a story about how someone had been shot near the entrance of their sub-division.

This particular individual was also extremely religious. Personally, I believe, while they never explicitly said it, that they believed their god would simply guard them against everything. If their approach gives them some degree of peace of mind, that can be a good thing; but I hope they never have to find out.

A Tough Nut to Crack

I must admit I am a bit stumped in coming up with an approach on how to convince these types of individuals of doing anything differently. I’m not sure even appealing to their duty to protect their family would be enough to convince them otherwise.

I learned a long time ago that you cannot sell anything to someone not interested. For those truly not interested in doing anything, I believe there is little to be done. Perhaps they might change their minds if something bad ever were to happen to them; but we would not wish that on anyone.

If you have any suggestions, leave them in the comments section at the end of this post.

Sh*t Just Happens

I have heard people say that life happens and if something bad were to happen to them, it may just be their time and that there is nothing they can do.

This would seem to be more of a defeatist mindset, whereby an individual believes they have no say-so or input as to what happens to them. I guess if I thought in terms of every bad thing being an ambush of some type, with no way to prepare ahead of time or react effectively, I might believe this mindset; but that is simply not true in all cases.

Be engaged and make proactive choices that can help you shape your fate, where you may actually be able to have positive outcomes.

Choose to be in charge of at least your own personal safety and preparedness.

Going to The Neighbors’

Think you are just going to go borrow what you need or ask for help from neighbors if something happens? Do they know what to do any better than you do? Do they have the supplies that you do not? What about a large-scale incident or mass casualty? Think your neighbors will prioritize your needs over that of their own?

Stop thinking that dependency on others is a plan.

Get the training, the supplies, and get a plan of your own. Work to become self-sufficiency.

I Cannot

I had another co-worker once tell me something to the effect of them being too little and weak; and that they did not know how to defend themselves. They actually said at one point, “I’d probably just lay down and die.” This is what they said to me when the subject of defending yourself came up one time in the office. Whether they knew it or not, they had already decided what their fate would be should something ever happen to them.

“Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” – Henry Ford

Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.

You are capable of way more than you think; and you are also worth having a more positive outlook for yourself.

There is no way you are that weak, scared, or that much of a coward. Believe in yourself and your abilities!

Improve your outlook and work to develop a positive mindset. Seek the knowledge and training to help make you more sure of your capabilities. Think more positively. Manifest positive outcomes. Work to improve your confidence, your self-worth, and general outlook on your life.

It Will Never Happen to Me

I believe this is one of the top reasons why more people are not invested in prioritizing their personal safety and preparedness.

The good news for all of us? Bad things seldom happen; but they certainly can and do happen.

Maybe you have never been exposed to violence or a crime or had anything bad happen to you? Own the fact and be more honest with yourself that just because it has not happened to you (yet) or that it rarely happens, it can happen.

Put aside your naivety. Research crime in your area and see what may be really going on just outside the bubble you have created for yourself. Go through a citizens police academy or volunteer with a domestic violence shelter or similar to see the other side. Find security videos of crimes that have taken place to see that they do happen and better understand how they happen.

Seek out others that teach in the space and find self defense schools in your area that get good reviews, etc. There is also tons of information online and in podcasts for you to learn from, like right here with OwnGuard Solutions.

Consider learning first-aid and basic trauma care if nothing else, so you are better prepared to take care of you and yours.

Your life and that of your loved ones is worth prioritizing your personal safety and preparedness regardless of the chances of something bad happening.

What things do you think you could do to be safer and better prepared for yourself and your family? Leave them in the comments below.

I Do Not Have the Time

This is also one of the top reasons why more people do not make it a point to become more invested in their personal safety, exercise, or many things they should be doing.

Unfortunately, the reality is the folks that believe they have no time are 100% right.

You will never just have the time. You have to make it!

Here are some strategies to help find that elusive time:

• Get up earlier or stay up later.
• Spend part of your lunch.
• Give up time spent on social media or TV.
• Carve out consistent time each week.
• Involve the family so you do not have to take time away.
• Have a significant other (SO) or spouse fill in for a task or errand so you have time freed up.
• What other ways can you think to find the time you need to do the things you need to do? Use the comments below to share.
• ?

Your personal safety and preparedness and that of your loved ones is worth finding the time for. Share some of your ways of finding time in the comments below.

Against My Religion

I know some religious folks have a concern or even a belief that defending themselves is against their god’s word or somehow in contradiction to what their religion teaches. I believe this could not be further from the truth. No deity that cares for its people could deny them this simple right, the right of self-defense and self-preservation or that of their loved ones.

In fact, many argue that self-defense is actually a god-given right.

I think the real concern is with harming others, even if those others are out to do harm. I am not a religious person; but I am spiritual, and I have to say that it is foolish to think that any higher power would be against us defending ourselves or our loved ones. And while harming others may generally be frowned upon, if others are intent on harming you, then the general rules no longer apply.

Don’t allow yourself or your loved ones to be hurt or even killed by someone intent on taking property or life over clinging to some dogmatic religious beliefs. You need to know what to do and be ready to respond accordingly. You can always ask for forgiveness later.

If you do have to harm or even put someone down, you may feel guilt but that is natural and by no means a reason not to defend yourself or your loved ones. Guilt will inevitably be part of the process in the aftermath either way.

Just Call 911

I have heard at least two law enforcement officers say that people “should just call 911.” Of course, they would say that. Plus, I bet they know all too well that most people are not prepared and really do not know what to do.

Yes, we may ultimately need the help of medical staff or even law enforcement; but there are things that can be done beforehand in that space and time before any first-responders get on scene.

Besides, why should you intentionally elect to solely be dependent on others when it comes to your safety and well-being? Or on a system that can easily break down?

Response Time

With the average response time of first-responders being at least 7-10 minutes in many cases, what could possibly happen while you wait? What about if you are camping or in some other remote location? What if there is severe bleeding happening where a victim could bleed out in as little as 3-5 minutes (sometimes less)? The math will not work; will it? What would you do? I know the last couple of times I had to call 911, I was placed on hold for at least 3 minutes or more each time!

Can you predict where you will be when something bad happens?

Are your friends, family members, spouse or SO trained and know what they are doing in emergencies, self-defense, or domestic situations? Are you always going to be with them when something bad happens?

What is the average response time for police and fire in your home area? Are you always going to be at your home when something bad happens? Do you know what the response time is where you will be? What happens when 911 cannot get to you in time? What if normal communications are down?

You never know the circumstances when something bad happens; but one thing is for sure, you should not be dependent on others or “the system” when it comes to your safety and well-being.

The good news is the chances are slim that something bad will happen which means you have time to learn some basics.

Again, learning some first-aid and basic trauma care would go a long way for you and your loved ones.

REMINDER: Be sure to provide your address/location first when you call or get connected with 911.

I Have a Gun

A gun solves all your problems when it comes to your personal safety; right? Uhhh… No.

A gun is NOT some talisman; and “I would rather be judged by 12 than carried by 6,” is a silly motto to declare and live by.

Can you follow basic firearm safety rules? Are you in a situation where you actually can even make a safe shot? When is the last time you got training? Do you got to a range and shoot more than once every few months? Can you perform under stress? Have you decided that you can and are you prepared to take someone’s life? Do you know your local laws of firearm use? Do you just shove your firearm into your purse when you go out and think you are ready?

A firearm may not be an answer for you and could actually get you into more trouble instead of solving your problems. Not to mention a firearm should only be the very last resort and not your go-to solution.

Shoot regularly, more if you plan on using a gun for self-defense or home protection. Get training, dry fire regularly, at minimum. Realize that the use of a firearm is not really like what is portrayed on TV or in the movies. Learn some firearm usage law. Accept that guns are not a magic cure-all for your self-defense needs. Stop with the fantasizing and the macho bravado. Reel the ego back into check.

Separate a gun making you feel better or more secure (the emotional appeal) from the realities of having to use it and knowing how to use it effectively if the need arises. Repetitious use and training are the only ways to overcome.

When I Get Mad…

“… I Just See Red.” These folks claim not to be worried and that they can take care of themselves in most situations. Somehow through their anger and unbridled rage, they believe they will be able to do what is needed and come out on top.

Again, stop with the fantasizing, the macho bravado and get that ego in check. If you have had any training at all, you would know this attitude is not logical nor a viable approach.

What about your children? Your SO? How about your aging parents? What are you going to be able to do for them other than call 911 and wait? Do you think you are going to fight your way out of any and all situations, even when those others are involved? 

Your blind rage and ego will more than likely land you in hot water more than it will help or save you and your loved ones, not to mention you may just get your a** beat.

Anger or ego issues? Seek counseling. Get a grip. Acknowledge your rage and ego do not give you magical abilities.

I Do Not Want to Live in Fear or Be Paranoid

I have heard this too.

Prioritizing your personal safety or being better prepared has nothing to do with paranoia or living in fear.

Working on your personal safety actually gives you more confidence, a sense of being more capable, and a feeling of security.

Being prepared or learning self-defense has nothing to do with fear or paranoia. In fact, once you learn some skills and gain some knowledge, the fear lessens and you learn it has nothing to do with being paranoid

Making your home more secure, making your vehicle more secure, paying attention to your environment, and knowing some first-aid and basic trauma care all have nothing to do with fear or paranoia. It all makes you better prepared; and that is not a bad thing.

Training in Groups is Intimidating

You may be self-conscious; and that’s OK. Many folks are, myself included at times, even if they do not admit it. You are definitely not alone.

Some common excuses heard are that folks want to be in good shape before they attend any sort of self-defense or martial arts classes, since they can be physically demanding. The reality? Most folks starting out are in the same boat, so it is more than fine not to be in top shape. In fact, in time, by going to class, you will get into better shape and be more of a force to reckon with.

Insofar as firearms training is concerned, why would you expect to be super competent if you have never been through training or do not shoot a regularly? The only way to become more competent is to shoot regularly and get the training you keep putting off.

Worse comes to worst, you can take private training. Certainly more expensive, but it will better keep your group anxieties in check while still allowing you to learn and progress.

Likely Not Going to Happen

The chances are slim, yes, like tornados, fires, plane crashes, snake bikes, etc.

You are still always better off being at least a little prepared. Even your kids’ likely participate in fire and tornado drills at school. What are you doing?

You can put fire extinguishers in your house, put lighting up in dark places around the house, pay attention to your surroundings when you go out, and get some basic first-aid training, if nothing else.

What else can you think of that would take minimal effort but still make you better prepared? Leave your ideas in the comments below.

Hope

As you may have heard before, hope is not a strategy. It all involves you taking proactive measures and making efforts ahead of time. After all, it is your safety and preparedness we are talking about. You have to make the effort. You deserve it and so do your loved ones.

Dealing With It When and If It Happens

We are lucky that bad things seldom happen in the overall scheme of things. This gives us a sense, a false sense, there is little for us to do until said bad things occur. Not so.

The question is how well will you be prepared and able to handle a situation if you just wait until the thing happens?

It is better to be proactive than reactive where possible. Getting training, obtaining knowledge, and preparing ahead of time, before needing it, is always the better course of action.

Take the initiative, get the training, learn new skills, and work to be better prepared overall. And do so proactively, before you actually need any of it!

They Said They Love Me, They Are Sorry, and It Won’t Happen Again

The hope is things will get better and be like they might have once been. However, these proclamations do NOT justify or absolve any behavior that threatens your safety and well-being.

If they loved you, it likely would not have happened in the first place. If they are truly sorry, it will never happen again.

Reach out to family or close friends for support. Seek counseling. Recognize your situation and who you are dealing with. Seek training that can help further empower you and boost your confidence. Know that there are support groups, counselors, and safe houses that can support and work to protect you. Know you are not alone and those that have been through similar can help you as well. Listen to your gut. Know you are worthy of a happy, fulfilling life, and not deserving of the bad things that might be happening to you. 

The Efforts and Strategies

This is not an exhaustive list and does not cover every aspect or detail you will likely need to consider; and it is in no particular order. However, these are some broad approaches you should consider in taking the initiative to prioritize your personal safety and preparedness and that of your loved ones.

Scenarios

What if …? Think about various scenarios that you and your family might experience and how you would handle each of them. Whether a car accident, an incident while camping, a stranger at the gas station, someone kicking in your front door, etc., and regardless how improbable you might think they are, think through scenarios and then think through and formulate plans and actions that you would consider in handling the scenarios. Anyone that has thought through a game plan ahead of time is better prepared than those who have not.

Training

Seek training and education. Whether learning how to identify potential threats, empty-hand skills, the use of firearms, basic first-aid and trauma care, or general information, seek out resources, like OwnGuard Solutions. It is money and time well spent.

Learn the softer skills of behavioral, environmental, and situational awareness, avoidance, and de-escalation. Learn to listen to what your gut is telling you.

Look to resources, like OwnGuard Solutions, for your informational and educational needs in the mix. We are constantly adding new content and will be adding various classes in the mix to support your efforts.

Build Up Supplies

Think about gear and supplies that you may need that you do not have currently, and get them. Get supplies ahead of time. Food, batteries, first-aid supplies, fuel, battery chargers, etc. No need to hoard if you are planning and stocking up ahead of time. Have them on-hand and in their proper places to facilitate easier access when you need them, stocked in your home and ready in your vehicles.

Create and Share Plans

After you have thought through the scenarios and gotten the training and supplies, pull together plans based on the scenarios. Include everyone in your family, even the kids, and share the plans so everyone knows what to do and feels like they are part of any plan you come up with.

Get Help

Get help if you need it. There are lots of entities that can support your efforts in prioritizing your personal safety and preparedness. It starts with you.

Conclusion

Stop putting effort and energy in coming up with all the excuses why you are not prioritizing your personal safety and preparedness, and start finding the reasons to prioritize both.

There will always be “reasons” if you let there be. Is it effort to be safer and better prepared? Sure. But it is worthwhile and not hard to do, nor is it super time consuming.

The key is to start taking proactive action, accepting that you are in charge of you and cannot rely on others or ‘the system’ to take care of you and yours. Take the initiative.

As Denis mentioned in a podcast, we have to meet people where they are in their personal safety and preparedness journeys; but they also need to take the first steps on their journeys.

It is our hope that you will let OwnGuard Solutions help you and your family during your journey to becoming safer and better prepared. Have a look around, and reach out with any topics you would like to see us cover that we have not already or any questions you may have. Keep checking back as we will be adding more exciting things in the very near future.

What have you found as successful ways of moving away from the “reasons” you may have had in the past? Share them in the comments below.

Related Content