It's never too late to start observing

Observation is about seeing the world around you, having situational awareness, and interpreting what others communicate verbally and nonverbally.

Good observation skills allow us to test and validate what others intend for us. Are they kind, unselfish, empathetic? Or selfish, cruel, indifferent, and apathetic? If we discover it early enough, we can spare ourselves.

Being observant does not mean being obnoxious or intrusive. It is done with subtlety and purpose. We assess for two things primarily:

• Danger: How does this situation or individual make me feel? If you are walking to your car at night and see someone...