Sometimes we recognize the scenario.

Sometimes we notice the trigger.

We know something isn't right.

We know a decision needs to be made.

And then we arrive at one of the most important questions in the STARS Framework:

What will you do about it?

The STARS Framework for Vigilant Living was created to help people think more intentionally about uncertainty, preparedness, decision-making, and resilience before a crisis arrives.

In this Foundation Series, we're exploring each pillar of the STARS Framework one at a time.

Today's episode focuses on the third pillar:

Action — What Will You Do About It?

Awareness matters.

Preparation matters.

But awareness without action changes nothing.

In this episode, Lori Baxley explores the role of decision-making when faced with uncertainty, risk, opportunity, and adversity.

Whether the situation involves personal safety, health, finances, relationships, business, or everyday life, there often comes a moment when information alone is no longer enough.

A choice must be made.

An action must be taken.

A step must be taken forward.

Drawing from personal experience, criminal justice, preparedness principles, and lessons learned through adversity, Lori discusses why decisive action often matters more than perfect action.

As Theodore Roosevelt famously observed:

"In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing."

The question is not whether uncertainty exists.

The question is:

What will you do about it?

About the STARS Framework

The STARS Framework is built around five questions designed to help us navigate uncertainty before crisis arrives:

⭐ Scenarios — What can happen here?

⭐ Triggers — What feels slightly off?

⭐ Action — What will you do about it?

⭐ Routines — What habits keep you safe?

⭐ Stoicism — Can you stay calm when everything isn't?

About the Host

Lori Baxley is the host of Three Sips to Shots Fired: What Happens Before the Sirens.

A survivor of a violent home invasion, former police officer, probation officer, criminal justice professional, educator, and advocate for vigilant living, Lori developed the STARS Framework to help individuals think more intentionally about preparedness, awareness, and resilience in everyday life.

STARS Foundation Series

Part 1: Origin Story of the STARS Framework

Part 2: Scenarios — What Can Happen Here?

Part 3: Triggers — What Feels Slightly Off?

Part 4: Action — What Will You Do About It?

Part 5: Routines — What Habits Keep You Safe?

Part 6: Stoicism — Can You Stay Calm When Everything Isn't?

Part 7: Closing Reflection

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