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As a LEO I believe I can give you the “magic formula” to avoid 99% of “street attacks”:
Don’t participate in illegal activity. Don’t hang out with people who attract trouble (need I clarify that?). Don’t hang out in places that attract trouble. Don’t get drunk or high. Don’t tolerate domestic violence, call the police and/or leave the abuser. Be alert to your surroundings and if something “feels” wrong…leave. Many people stick around thinking that they are being needlessly paranoid.
For that remaining 1% of instances where you are attacked while just “minding your own business”…study an art that exposes you to striking/grappling/fighting with a resisting opponent and exposes you to getting hit and working through exhaustion and stress. Be aware of your states self defense laws, and have a plan for “post-incident” already thought out.
And throughout it all, everyday, practice your skill sets.
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November 16, 2008 at 7:31 pm
Hey Tom,
Nice post and that really does cover quite a bit on how to avoid violence. Particularly if something feels wrong….leave. That has always served me well. I would also point out that I agree that if you surround yourself with good people who do not attract trouble then your chances in life regarding everything are better. These are commons sense type of things but people need to pay attention to them.
November 16, 2008 at 8:08 pm
Hi Brian,
Yup. People seem to harbor the belief that violence is random and around every corner. While you have to be aware and alert at all times, because there is “random violence” out there, far and away the greatest threat is always going to be what you are exposed to 24/7.
November 17, 2008 at 4:00 am
I usually use the phrase “The best defense is living well” to present the very points you list Tom.
Treat yourself well, treat others well, and keep people who treat you well around you.
November 19, 2008 at 5:43 am
Nice, straight forward and totally practical. My favorite kind of MA advice.
December 9, 2008 at 7:03 pm
[...] read my Magic Formula post. It sounds like we subscribe to the same philosophies. [...]
January 22, 2009 at 7:40 am
[...] think this sentiment echoes a few of my previous posts; namely my “magic self-defense formula” and Col. Grossman’s “screw golf” [...]
July 23, 2009 at 10:02 am
[...] Tom, as a LEO, gives us his “magic self-defense formula”. [...]
July 23, 2009 at 10:32 am
[...] those who read this blog, she and I share pretty much the same philosophy on avoiding [...]
November 30, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Wow, I love this magical formula. I think it should be presented to the National Board of Health, as it will not only prevent 99% of all attacks, but also keep you out of jail, in mental and physical health, and kill 99% of all fun activities. A wonderful formula for staying in your comfort zone and ensuring boredom. Great home-spun philosophy.
I’m clapping with one hand.