Red flags

Here is a great article about "red flags", or danger signs that I like to call them.
It's a great read by an (obviously) experienced police officer.

Even though the examples may be a little off from a civilian point of view, the underlying principle is spot on - always observe and think; use your radar!

Now this may sound tiresome, but I can assure you it is not. It is simply a matter of getting used to having your head and your body at the same place and time. It's nothing fancy at all.

Remember that good self-defense and self preservation begins with awareness. This is not the same as walking around being scared or being "prepared for the worst". Awareness is using your senses and your mind in a relaxed manner. It takes a little exercise, that's all.

Some of the things that may lower your awareness:
Drugs and alcohol, being tired, running late, using headphones or talking on a phone, being upset or angry, being occupied with past or future issues, being caught in tourist traps, travelling, shopping, watching or listening to something that intrigues you - and so on.