Defensive Countermeasures Institute —

Many recognize the value of a hard-earned dollar. In fact, much of our working lives are devoted to earning even more dollars, thus being able to provide for some of life’s necessities and increasing financial wealth in the process.  In time, we begin to understand the power of investing a portion of our earnings wisely and the dividend growth that follows.

Another instrument worthy of wise investment is the time it takes to develop the mental capital needed to master common sense approaches. We have all heard at one time or another that the solution to a particular problem is “common sense.” But what is ‘common sense’ and how do we know if we truly possess it?

This unique reference to communal knowledge works its way into discussions about personal safety and security as well.  For example, “It’s just common sense not to open your door to a stranger.” or,  “Common sense dictates that you don’t leave a firearm anywhere within reach of a child.” Arguably, few adults would disagree with the logic of these statements.  Unfortunately, each of these sound measures is violated repeatedly and often meets with tragic results.  The problem can be traced to the failure to invest in mental capital and spending it to reach common sense solutions.

To understand the path to common sense as a conscious undertaking is to acknowledge the requirement to analyze choices by weighing the near and long-term outcomes, e.g. to what extent will our decisions influence the nature of our environment.  Simply stated, each challenge faced produces a unique set of circumstances, which may only be addressed in two manners—the right way and the wrong way. Reaching the correct solution requires thinking through the problem and uncovering the positive or desired outcome.

Let’s return to the first common sense example.  In most every instance, we choose correctly not to open our door to a stranger, recognizing the near-term threat to our safety and well-being. This decision is reached quickly since we have acquired the mental capital that—when divested or spent—calculates the risk involved. The common sense dividend is personal security.

In the second example, the potential for serious injury or death resulting from failure to secure a firearm in such a manner that precludes a curious child from handling it is another example of the benefit from analyzing decisions—and the near and/or long-term impact. Firearms are one of many tools that may be selected to increase personal security. However, like any tool, firearms—left unsecured where children are present—pose unacceptable risks to serious injury or death.   Upon thinking through the scenario it becomes clear a positive outcome demands storing the weapon in a safe and secure manner—out of a child’s reach. Once again, we see the advantages of investing in mental capital.  The common sense dividend is a safer environment for children.

In summary, common sense is the solution-based decision, which produces a positive outcome and is only arrived at through careful calculation and experience. Acquiring these sound skills and techniques through education and practice is a step in the right-direction to dividend growth that aids with increasing personal safety and security.  For more information on how you or your employer can benefit from our personal safety and security-based solutions, contact DCI today.  There’s no obligation. Begin investing in your security today. Be Safe!