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Originally Posted by Judi W Exactly. It is "if - then" planning. We've all been told to have a plan should the house catch on fire, but that applies to many other things as well.
Here's what I could have and should have done means you have an understanding for next time. |
You can also call this "worst case scenario" planning or disaster planning. It is not only wise but just plain old prudent to have worst case scenario plans in your head.
In my mind, it is a real sign of maturity when people have identified what the worst case scenario is, and actively avoid it. Good plans identify the various "steps" along the way towards both successes and disasters. This WCS planning applies to everything. Dog training, flight safety, computer upgrades, home renovations etc.
Many people seem to lack this ability to plan ahead for both WCS's, and also successes. These same people often dismiss WCS planning as fear-mongering. It's not, it's just an identification and mature decision making process at work.
When disasters strike, (and they seem to more and more often) it is the people who have already identified what needs to be done that step to the front.
I have many WCS plans I use in my training with S'Dragon. If I undersocialize, or physically dominate him, those are steps toward a disaster of him biting someone.
If he is giving me warning signs (body language) that he is not planning to behave well, I immediately take steps to avoid that situation before it builds to a head.
For example, if he is posturing and growling at a person, I correct for the inappropriate behaviour, and move off to avoid a potential disaster. If I cannot, I put him into a "control" position and keep him there until the situation has passed. I do not do this because I believe he will bite, but because I do not even want a remote possibility that he could be in a position where he could choose to do so. I identified the WCS, and avoided it.
This WCS planning does not mean that we do not get out, I just have a plan in my head about what a successful trip out is, and what is a worst case scenario.
Don't be afraid to avoid situations where you can get into WCS mode.