Noticing what is around you.
WHAT AWARENESS MEANS
Knowing roughly what is happening around you, without anxiety.
WHY IT WORKS
It allows you to notice a developing situation early, when options still exist.
WHAT REDUCES IT MOST
Using a phone while walking Headphones Carrying too much Being in a hurry Being tired or unwell
WHY PHONES SPECIFICALLY
They remove attention and they advertise something worth taking.
WHAT TO DO
Put it away in public, particularly while walking.
WHAT TO NOTICE
Who is near you Anyone paying attention to you Vehicles moving slowly or stopping People positioned where there is no reason to be Changes in the normal pattern of a place
WHY CHANGES IN PATTERN
Somewhere usually busy that is suddenly empty is information.
WHAT TO DO WHEN SOMETHING FEELS WRONG
Act on it.
WHY
The feeling is usually a response to something noticed but not consciously identified.
WHAT ACTING ON IT MEANS
Changing direction Entering a populated place Making a call Leaving
WHAT NOT TO DO
Continue because leaving would be embarrassing.
WHY
Embarrassment is the commonest reason people ignore warnings.
WHAT TO PRACTISE
Noticing exits and populated areas as you move.
WHY
It takes no effort once habitual and it matters when needed.
WHAT TO AVOID
Constant vigilance, which is exhausting and unsustainable.
