Reflection - 3/4
When I felt I was in imminent danger, I immediately went into evaluation and execution mode. No doubt, thanks to my training at WOFT.
There were many reasons I wanted to train at WOFT, but the #1 reason was to make sure I was trained under pressure in real life scenarios. I wanted to train my brain to think under pressure, not in a controlled predictable environment like my usual competitive shooting.
I was composed and mentally prepared in the moment. I was acutely aware of my options to my car or back to the store front and the tools I (didn’t) have on me.
I was explicit and confrontational and made clear eye contact. I computed surroundings and faces and vehicle descriptions and level of threat. I evaluated and executed to safety. And most importantly I didn’t freeze.
And then I proceeded to a USPSA match completely shook and proceeded to freeze mentally and at times physically during my runs.
Guys, if I had been on my phone, or distracted, or not listening to my gut, this could’ve ended very differently.
Today, I’m still rattled. I’ve spilt my coffee twice and generally can’t concentrate. I’m still shaking. The event was triggering.
Most do not know that I survived a violent crime as a child. The most life-changing and sustained therapeutic recovery has stemmed from becoming self-reliant, prepared, and proficient in self- defense, and generally becoming a harder target.
People think I have “spunk” and “attitude” and “sass”. I may, but maybe I also have a no-bullshit tolerance to being fucked with ever again.
It's important to not get too comfortable, or overly confident. Continue to train your body and mind under pressure. Spend more time and energy on training than on toys and ammo. Keep yourself sharp.
Stay safe.