Self-defense: Common mistakes

In this article we have listed some mistakes of thinking and planning, as well as behavior in a dangerous situation.

MISTAKE #1: “I’ll just run away”

Theoretically, this sounds reasonable, but in reality it is not always possible. This assumption does not take into account how real obstacles can slow down or even hinder your escape to safety. Both external factors can have an impact: closed doors, blocked passages or uneven ground/roads. The danger may also come from opponents who will not want to allow your escape.

Running is a great escape option if possible, but you also need to be prepared to stay put and fight. To do this, you need to think in advance about how to buy an effective self-defense weapon.

MISTAKE #2: “I’ll call the police/home”

A call for help is effective if help is within earshot, and these people respond faster than an attacker can harm you. If that doesn’t sound very likely, it’s because it is.

You will need to have time to get the phone, unlock it, dial the number, wait for an answer, describe the situation and wait for help.

Sometimes this can work if the conflict develops gradually, for example, but it is necessary to have other tactics in reserve.

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MISTAKE #3: “Dirty fighting is not fair”

We used to avoid some techniques in fights or in training because they seem dirty: bites, punches in the groin, finger manipulation, hair pulling, etc. These restrictions are reasonable in the gym, but when it comes to your safety, they can be used to protect your life and health. You should not avoid such techniques just because it seems ugly behavior.

You shouldn’t expect chivalry on the street. In a life-and-death situation, you don’t need to treat your opponent with any respect.

MISTAKE #4: Preparing for danger does not mean successfully protecting yourself

Simply owning a high-quality non-lethal self-defense weapon or installing an alarm/security system in the house is not enough. It is very important to feel confident when handling your weapon. Training should be brought closer to reality. For example, practice getting a self-defense tool from the place where you usually wear it. How convenient is it to do it “on the go”, how quickly will you be ready for self-defense?

Self-defense devices, such as a stun gun or pepper spray, do not require special skills in handling them, but a dangerous situation should not be the first time you really have to get them out of the house.

MISTAKE #5: Learning only one tactic/technique

Possession of a high-quality means of self-defense significantly increases your chances of salvation. Mastery of martial arts will also help to resist the opponent in a fight. But don’t get hung up on just one scenario where you think weapons/skills will be most useful. It is necessary to take into account all the factors that will affect the situation: the number of opponents, their intentions and level of training, the place of action. It is always useful to have a backup plan of action.

MISTAKE #6: Inattention

USAF Colonel John Boyd formulated the OODA cycle (Observe Orient Decide Act), explaining the thought process of fighter pilots in combat. This process applies to all aspects of everyday life — especially when determining the outcome of a dangerous situation. Unfortunately, often the assessment of the situation is replaced by tunnel vision, and the only thing that a person can see is the enemy right in front of him. Or, even worse, the only thing he sees is the phone screen, and does not feel the enemy approaching.

Peripheral vision is lost and, in turn, valuable information can be missed Without scanning changing conditions, such as additional threats, the appearance of weapons or the opportunity to interrupt a confrontation and escape. The assessment of circumstances is the process of gathering information in a dangerous situation, where variables change with every second.