D.A.V.I.D.'s philosophy on self defense
Discipline: In order to perform well at anything, you need to have discipline. Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual are especially important in self-protection. You must have self-control in everything you do, especially in self-defense
Awareness: You must be observant and aware of your surroundings as well as having self-awareness. Use all the senses you were born with.
Virtue: It is vitally important, especially in a "use of deadly force" scenario, that you are NOT the aggressor...NOT the provoker. Remember, it's "Gun training for the Good Guys" The old saying "I didn't start the fight, but I did end it" needs to be very true.
Identify: You need to be able to identify many things in your surroundings. In general, what are the people, places, or things that will either help you, or be a threat to you.
Decisiveness: Once you've identified a potential threat, seconds count. Do NOT hesitate in making a decision. Typically, you've got 3 options: Avoid, Escape, Defend. Choose wisely and quickly.
Action Zone
It is up to you to decide when you will use any sort of force in self defense. This decision can be based on three broad, overlapping areas that are discussed much more in my training:
What is Legal: This is based on the "Use of Force" continuum, which varies from state to state.
What is Tactical: This is based on your own risk-based analysis of whether your actions have a high probability of success depending on each circumstance, and your capabilities.
What is Moral: This is based on your own moral values, and what you will be able to live with, depending on your actions taken to defend yourself.