Your words are important and powerful. If you think or speak in a fatalistic (no win, lacking confidence) way, your thoughts and words may lead to less than satisfactory results. If you talk and think positively, you have a better chance of influencing yourself and others – especially if you have a plan and skill.

During martial arts instruction, instructors at Delaware Hapkido often use the term short circuit. As used in our self-defense language, a short circuit is an action that changes the attacker's attention. An electrical short circuit can also require attention.

The strategy of actively avoiding problems includes observing people. What behaviors do you see?

When you find yourself in an area that does not feel or look right, make a wise decision. It may be best to leave.

People who observe patterns of criminal behavior and prepare can become less of a target.

Do not be an easy victim. Look for ways to avoid problems, and teach others the strategy of locking vehicle doors.

As a mentor, using effective teaching strategies is essential. There are countless teaching strategies proven to work. When teaching a new safety life skill, sometimes you have to be direct - "Don't touch the top of that hot stove!" However, orders combined with sharing why the information has value will have a better chance of changing behavior.

I had a plan for the day. I was ready to go. I knew that my schedule permitted a lot of focus on my weekly goals. Nothing was going to get in my way - I was going to get things done.

Always try to learn from documented criminal situations to avoid becoming a victim.

Situational awareness includes knowing what is going on in your community. Knowing crime patterns will help you prepare.

Lifelong learning provides a foundation of knowledge. With knowledge, a curious mind, and a mission, chances for success expand infinitely.

When something changes in your surroundings, be curious. Ask questions. Specifically, ask the question, “Why?”

Difficulties will not stop the persistent person or chickadee. They continue despite the difficult circumstances to achieve something.

People who get to the top of their profession display confidence. They have a plan, take time to prepare, and expend energy on activities that help them reach their goals. Therefore, they are confident. They can visualize what they are going to do.

Consider your use of time. Are you in control of your time?

Dealing with bad supervisors can be highly challenging, but we can learn from the situation.

What do you think most employers look for as they search for employees? I believe most employers look for people who can learn, problem-solve, and get results.

With a character compass, a young person has a better chance of navigating through life's challenges.