A well-known television therapist is known for the theory: "We dictate how other people treat us." Whether it's in the workplace, in a social situation or on the street, we unknowingly broadcast our character, intentions and even our vulnerabilities. Just as the guy with the stoic expression and hands on his hips in the long check out line telegraphs his impatience and anger at having to wait, the girl walking down the street with her head down and hands in her pockets tells others "I am a victim."

To ensure your personal safety, you can take extreme steps such as enrolling in physical self-defense classes, carry large caliber firearms or just avoid public situations all together. You could also just educate yourself by remembering a few simple rules that may keep the bad guys from picking you as their next victim.

Rule # 1. Be aware of your surroundings. This works whether you're at the mall, in your workplace or waiting at a poorly-lit bus stop. As humans, and members of the animal kingdom, we've inherited a very useful trait: Instinct. It's that "fight-or-flight" mechanism that all animals possess. Humans label it as intuition but it's basically that little voice telling you that something's not quite right. If you are uncomfortable in ANY situation, remove yourself from it. It could be the dimly lit bus stop or a date where the person across from you makes you feel uncomfortable.

Rule # 2.  Demonstrate confidence. Confidence is strength. Criminals including muggers, scam artists and bullies do not prey on those who are strong. When walking in public, don't look down at the ground. Keep your head held high and don't avoid making eye contact. Stay in well-lit areas if possible and whenever possible, walk or park in high traffic areas.

Rule # 3. When in doubt, ask for help. I can't stress enough the importance of reaching out to authority when feeling uneasy or threatened. Whether getting to your car in the mall parking lot or in a downtown parking garage, security will give an escort to those who request it. The same goes for calling the police. Some people are afraid to call their local police for fear of "bothering them." This is how it works: The police exist to enforce the laws, keep order AND protect its residents. No one should ever hesitate to contact the police with a concern or a question. If at any time, a police officer tells you not to call or bother them, they are in the wrong line of work.

Ladies, Never Turn Your Back on Your Purse!

Every year, thousands of women are victims of theft in our nation's supermarkets and department stores. It only takes a second for a thief to snatch a wallet out of an unattended purse or the whole handbag itself. Ladies, never turn your back on your purse!

Copyright © 2010 Daniel J. Burns