“Prepared, Not Violent” is a multi-part blog series from Eye Square Martial Arts. It explores the mindset, situational awareness, and physical preparedness needed to stay safe in today’s world—without becoming the aggressor.

This series is ideal for martial artists, self-defense students, and anyone who wants to understand violence without glorifying it.

📚 Series Overview

Part 0: The Self-Protection Toolbox

A general overview of the series and skills for self-protection.

Part I: Flipping the Switch

Why awareness and intent matter more than toughness.

Part II: Where Violence Happens

Recognizing high-risk environments before it’s too late.

Part III: Controlling Your Center

How body mechanics, breathing, and presence affect self-defense.

Part IV: Mutual Combat vs Sudden Assault

The difference between a fight you agree to—and one you never saw coming.

Part V: Motivations for Violence

There are only a few real motivations for violence, understand them to avoid

Part VI: The Smart Monkey

Becoming a “Smart Monkey” will help you avoid unnecessary violence.

Part VII: “Self-Defense” What’s Needed for a Proper Claim?

Legal use of force is something most people have never thought about.

Part VIII: Self-Defense: What’s the Prosecution’s Objective?

You need to understand what a prosecutor wants to do in a court case.

🧭 How to Use This Series

• Read in order for best understanding.
• Share posts with others—especially new students or concerned parents.
• Check back as we update and expand the series.