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Anger

When dealing with life, Bobby McFerrin in his hit song says "Don't worry. Be Happy." When dealing with an attacker, a better mantra would be “Don’t worry. Be angry.”

What has anger got to do with self-defense? It makes you want to stop the attacker instead of capitulating. If not controlled, it will only rob you of control, power, and speed, because you will not be thinking clearly and your body will be tense.

Without training, confidence, and a desire to survive, fear or anger will cause you to freeze-up or do the wrong thing in a confrontation. With proper preparation, the body will do whatever is necessary to escape and preserve its life, naturally and without hesitation. Every ounce of its strength is focused and directed toward one thing— survival.

Killer Instinct

Most martial artists would not survive a real-life street encounter. In their arrogant overconfidence gained from training in strictly controlled one-step and free sparring, their survival instinct has been dampened. They have become Taekwondo athletes, similar to dancers. They know the techniques, but they lack the "killer instinct" necessary for survival.

Do not think think this "killer instinct" is unnecessary or that you could never develop that kind of instinctive, animal-like focus. When a mother is forced to protect her child from harm, she instinctively enters this mindset. When you are so anger and indignant that you no longer care about the consequences, you are also in this frame of mind. You can, and you must, learn to consciously cultivate this mindset. You must be prepared to fight as if you were about to die at any moment. This overpowering desire to survive at any cost is what self-defense is really about.

Self-defense has nothing to do with breaking boards or kicking and punching while making loud yells. It is a state of mind, a type of consciousness, a peculiar awareness that keeps you alert and able to respond to any possible danger. The actions are merely physical movements, which are totally useless without a survival mindset.

Confrontation

Confrontations among people may involve one or more of the following escalating types:

• Discussions

• Disagreement (verbal or written)

• Arguments (verbal or written)

• Lawsuits

• Police Assistance Required

• Unarmed Fistfights

• Armed Attacks

• Life or Death Struggle (armed or unarmed)

Awareness

Stay aware of your surroundings. Make sure you know the area or establishment you are going to. If you sense danger or extreme risk, do not go there. Once you are in an area or building, make a mental note of how to escape. Also, look for ready weapons, such as sticks, chairs, salt shakers, ashtrays, etc. Sit or stand with your back to a solid wall so your back is protected. Note where you can run or roll to seek cover.

Clothing

Wear clothing that is appropriate for that destination. Consider that the attire you choose may cause an offensive response towards you. Slick or sticky soles on shoes may limit kicks. Tight clothing may limit movements, as well as kicks. If needed, your belt can become a weapon by wrapping it around your hand and striking with the buckle.

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