1. Don't freeze

Pause and accept the presence of fear but utilize it to promote action

2. Fight to get away

Focus on winning, that is, on surviving. Your single purpose is to escape - escape - escape.

3. Never quit

Tell yourself today and now that, "no matter what, I won't give up! I will resist immediately and fully until I have succeeded." This is the mindset you must have.

4. Be loud

because it will make you powerful and confident. No assailant wants to deal with someone who could get him caught. Practice shouting a few times and know that you can do it. Shout into a pillow if you have to. Say, "stop", "no", "get away", or any other command you can think of. It will make you feel great!

5. Strike target zones

Imagine an assailant in front of you. Hold your hands up by your head, palms out. Stay "hidden" behind your hands and protected. Now reach out with your arm and fingers, fist, and palm towards vulnerable target zones such as the eyes, nose, and groin. Also try pinching, scratching, poking and biting.

6. Ask "WHAT IF?

and try every position you can think of. Sitting, laying down, standing - imagine how you would strike back from that position. Elbows, knees, hands, keys, pillows - use everything and anything that works.

7. Use a shield

if you find yourself lying on your back, bring your knees together with your feet to the outside. This is your personal shield to an assailant to keep him from getting on top of you. By pivoting on your tail bone, you can thrust kicks while shifting left or right to prevent an attacker from mounting you. If you turn to your side at all, keep the top knee close to your chest and use your foot and shin to shield you.

8. Stay on your feet

if you are knocked down or in a prone position, practice getting to your feet quickly. The secret is to plant one or both hands to the side of your body so you can get your feet underneath you. As you raise, bring your hands up to protect your head and keep your hips behind you as you back up. With this technique, you're less likely to fall back down!

Just going through these points in your mind will do wonders for your confidence. You already have everything it takes to be prepared and safe.