In a recent range session, I made a significant mistake in front of students. This experience is shared to emphasize the importance of owning up to errors and learning from them.
The Drill: The drill involved shooting targets in a specific order based on the numbers called out. However, I shot the wrong the targets in the wrong order. This seemingly simple mistake carried substantial consequences if this was real life, highlighting the importance of cognitive thinking in training.
Accountability Matters: In firearms training, simple mistakes should viewed in the light of how serious that can be in real life scenarios. Shooting the wrong target in training could be shooting an innocent bystander for a law enforcement officer or accidentally shooting your family member instead of the assailant in a self defense scenario. Parallels Misjudgments can lead to dire consequences, emphasizing the need for accountability.
Cognitive Thinking in Firearms Training: Incorporating cognitive thinking into firearms training is the next logical step after you have a baseline of safety and marksmanship. It’s not just about shooting fast but also about making decisions swiftly and accurately. Commitment to creating intricate drills that force individuals to engage in decision-making processes is imperative for creating capable shooters.
Learning from Mistakes: Acknowledging mistakes is crucial for improvement. You need to analyze errors thoroughly, identifying breakdowns in the decision-making processes. By understanding the root cause, you can make corrections and enhance your cognitive skills under stress.
Avoiding Complacency: Even seemingly straightforward drills can lead to mistakes when taken for granted. You shouldn’t rush through exercises and need to stay focused, especially when tasks seem easy or repetitive.
Conclusion: I share this mistake to foster a culture of continuous improvement. As learners, we’re all on a journey to get better, and embracing mistakes is a vital part of that process.
Members of the Full Spectrum Warrior Online University can check out our series on Cognitive Thinking Under Stress.