Some of us have truly terrible things happen to us. Things that were unfair and downright traumatizing. We all know someone with a story like this, whether they shared it with you or not. These 6 tips are what I view as key points in fighting the monsters our parent's told us didn't exist.

1. Always be Vigilant!!!

Whether you’re walking through your local Meijer or leaving work late one night, always be conscious of what is going on around you. Pay attention to the people you are constantly seeing and whether or not they’re paying you extra attention. This alone could mean life or death. You should also never distract yourself from this. Meaning, if you walk with headphones in, leave an earbud out. Never engross yourself in your phone or another electrical device to the point where you have no idea what’s going on around you anymore.

2. If you feel uncomfortable do not leave the public eye.

If you feel like someone has been watching you for too long or has been surprisingly in every aisle you’ve been in, don’t leave the store. Play the waiting game and see if your suspicions are correct. If you are on time restraint, ask an employee to walk you to your car. It very well could be nothing. You very well could just be paranoid. If you aren’t though, then you could quite possibly just have saved your own life. A parking lot is a dream land for an assailant, even more so if it’s dark outside. Which brings me to my next tip…

3. Always park as close as you can and always under a light post.

Never put yourself in the position where you’re walking across a deserted parking lot in the middle of the night, with nobody else around. You don’t want to be digging through your purse, in the dark, while trying to find your keys. Either of these instances make you more of a target. While there might not be a close spot or an available light post to park under, that goes back to my previous point. Have an employee walk you out or at the very least have someone be on the phone with you until you make it to your vehicle safely.

4. Make a scene.

Most assailants have a type they go after. Obviously, it differs from person to person by some level, but most go after the individual who would seem to put up the least resistance. If you notice someone staring you down or is following you around, engage them. Stare that person in the eye and ask them what’s up? Do I know you? Why have you been following me? Be loud. Make them uncomfortable. More times than not, they’ll leave you alone in fear that other people noticed your exchange. Show them that you’ll fight to the death for the safety of yourself. Be the lioness we all know you are, not the lamb he sees you too be.

5. Always be prepared.

When walking at night or anytime really, I’m thinking about the prospect of being attacked. Some call me paranoid for it, but it happens to hundreds of women across our country A DAY, so it could happen to me. It could also happen to you. So, plan your counter attack. Hold your keys in your knuckles for a makeshift knife. Have your finger already on the nozzle of your maze. Being prepared might also not just mean in the heat of the moment, though. Take a self-defense class. Get your CPL and carry concealed. Jog every day so if you must run, you can run.

6. Play Safe

It isn’t fair that we always should be on the defense. It isn’t fair that we must question every aspect of our life to protect ourselves. But it is a fact of this life right now. So, trust your gut instinct about that creepy guy at the coffee shop. If you’re caught up in a bad area of town, call a friend or a cab instead of walking. If you’re at a party, don’t drink beyond your limits or have a DD friend watching over you. Your body is your temple and your mind and spirit are the best defense.

Sometimes, though, no matter how careful we are or how safe we are, terrible things are done to us. It isn't your fault. It is never EVER your fault. I don't care if you were plastered drunk or walking down an alleyway in Detroit. You didn't ask for it. You didn't tempt him. He's a monster and you're still more beautiful than words can describe, stronger than the most severe hurricanes, and loved by more than you know. If you need to talk and don't think anyone will listen, I will. Or you can contact RAINN.Org to speak to a trained consultant who knows what you're going through and do whatever they can to help you. Stay strong beauties, it's us against the world.