The Dangers of Texting

I love to watch people, it is one of my favorite pastimes. I enjoy watching people and trying to read as much as I can about a person just by observing them. From their body language, the way they move, eye contact, how they interact with others you can tell a great deal about a person.

One thing I have observed recently that concerns me as a self-defense teacher is people walking and constantly texting or ready text/e-mail on their PDA's, I-Phones ETC. People doing this are walking and constantly looking down at their phones. This is so dangerous! Talk about a distraction and not being aware of ones surroundings.

We all need to put ourselves in check with this. If you want to text or read your e-mail stop, look around you and then find a seat somewhere for a few minutes that you think is safe. When you get up to walk again, focus on walking and your surroundings. Anyone doing this marks themselves as an easier target for violent criminals. One of the things they look for in choosing a victim is someone distracted and not aware of their surroundings. This is like putting a sign over you as you walk "Easy Target."

There are also many things we miss in life, like seeing the beauty around us as we trek around this world. This is contributing greatly to so many not being present where they are at the moment. Which effects our lives and relationships negatively in numerous ways.

Make it a point to start checking yourself on how often you are present in the moment. If you are walking, where is your focus, when you are driving where is you mind, when you are with your loved ones where are you really?

One positive note about texting;
Many police departments have now implemented or are experimenting with a texting tips to police system. There may be situations where it would endanger someone to make the noise to call and speak, but you could silently text the police. This is a benefit! Find out if this is available in your city.