Take that first step, you’re worth it

Self defense is a multifaceted journey, and can look really different depending on the person. I remember the moment “self defense” was introduced to me for the first time as something that was MY responsibility. I got into distance running when I was in 7th grade (11 years old). My parents let me go on runs by myself, but I couldn’t go past the elementary school that was a half mile down our road, so I did lots of back and fourth trying to get my mileage in. A friendly female runner came across me one afternoon and stopped me. “You’re running alone!?”
“Yes, but I can’t go past the elementary school.”
“Here, take this. This is pepper spray, this is how you turn it on (removed the safety). Make sure you’re paying attention, and don’t run without this again.”

After that we both went on our marry way, and I carried that pink pepper spray for just about every run.

That was my very first step. Your very first step might look similar or VERY different. Part of self defense is also realizing that YOU ARE WORTH DEFENDING, @onherownlife (https://onherown.life) reminded me of this yesterday. You are worthy of defense. You are valuable enough to protect. Knowing those truths is a huge part of this journey, and a driving force behind our growth.
I couldn’t possibly count the amount of mamas that have reached out to me and shared that they didn’t get into self defense until they had their children. It was the sudden realization that they were in charge of protecting the lives of their littles that sent them into this journey. You are valuable enough to defend, and they are valuable enough to protect.

So, what even IS the first step? The first step might mean going to a therapist to begin working on your mental health. It could look like getting a gym membership to work on your physical strength and stamina. It could look like picking up a book on the topic, like The Cornered Cat by Kathy Jackson. It could look like picking up a can of pepper spray at your local Cabelas. It could even look like signing up for your first firearms or martial arts class. The most important thing at this point is that you take THE FIRST step. Only after that can you start thinking about steps 2-infinity.