10 Most Important Basics of Street Survival

I grew up on Long Island, New York, in the town of Hempstead. It is a pretty high crime area and as a child, there was always a need, to walk through seedy areas, to get to school. Most hear the name Long Island and assume that it is a quiet, wholesome suburb of New York. Unfortunately, not in the case of Hempstead. In order to get to school, or the local store, I walked through crowds of drug addicts, alcoholics, and drug dealers. Often, I have also been followed and accosted while walking to church. Dirty old men/pedophiles felt safe cruising around in these areas in the hopes of finding easy prey without being busted by the police. It wasn’t easy, but despite my small stature and being a female, I survived. Once I graduated from High school, I bolted and have since lived in areas populated by little more than trees and cows.

Although the experiences were somewhat traumatic, they thickened my skin and created a hyperawareness that never seems to fade; even now at the age of 37 and living in a small town in Italy. After serving in the military, traveling and working in different places, my survival skills are sharper than ever. There were many times in which I felt afraid, but my instincts have kept me safe. Here are some key behaviors that will help as you maneuver through life.

Confidence and posture:

Whenever you walk into a room, your presence is your power. You can never let anyone think, even for a minute, that they could take you down. I am 5 foot 10, but only about 145 pounds which means I am only about a size 2. I have always had people describe me as somewhat intimidating. Convince yourself that this world is my home, regardless of my location and I am going to be comfortable and assured. If you are the type of person who walks in, with your head down, shoulders slumped, you will attract predators who will view your body language as weakened and defeated.

Eye Contact

Walking into a crowd of people is never easy, but you cannot put on blinders and ignore your environment. Upon entering the area, take a quick scan around the room. You are searching for potential problems. Take notice of the most noticeable differences and keep them in the back of your mind. Also, Because a person is a different race, or looks somewhat disturbing, does not necessarily make them a potential offender. It’s the body language ot the person. If they are staring in your direction, for longer than necessary, use it as an indicator of potential danger. Yet, regardless of how nervous you are, don’t show it. Staring is a form of aggression, so what you want to do is let that person know, that you notice them. Look in the direction and look away, but never drop your guard.