What Does Being Tactical Mean?
Being prepared for any situation is not something that happens overnight. It is the commitment to a craft, a willingness to always be ready, that creates a tactical person. A common first thought when the word tactical gets used is the root word tactic which means a carefully planned strategy. Tactical is more about a strategic problem solving process than anything else.
How do you go about finding a solution to complex problems?
Dictionary.com defines tactical as “a plan of action designed as an expedient toward gaining a desired end.” Setting goals, forming a plan of action and taking the proper steps everyday to make them a reality might be easier said then done. The struggle is in aiming at an end goal beyond the immediate action. Each day we should be taking steps to solidify and build upon achieving our goals.
Effective problem solving starts with defining the problem, then having a clear understanding of the goal or solution. Showing clever planning by implementing solutions is the best approach to fine tuning these traits. Problem solving is a learned skill that takes years of practice. Here are a few tactical tips we have learned over the years.
(Always) Be Prepared
Living in a tactical mindset is not living in fear but rather living prepared. Our lives are a constant state of unknowns. Not being prepared for the unexpected flat out sucks but taking a tactical plan of action will provide confidence that you are ready for the unanticipated.
Examples of this would be having tire chains in your car for getting caught in a blizzard, bringing a self defense tool with you every time you leave the house, like a good pocket knife, or having a medical kit in your pack for a multi-day hike. Even locking up your bicycle when it is at risk of being stolen is an example of being tactical.
