I have often tried to explain the change in behavior with regards to responsible armed citizens. It changed my behavior and attitude unknowingly. It took a year for me to notice. But I have never been able to explain it with such eloquence as is stated above.
Prior to CCW, I was prone to be more aggressive when threatened, out of fear. My attitude was to get the upperhand ASAP if there was an imminent threat in order to survive long enough to escape. In fact, a self defense course I observed long ago was teaching women to attack viciously at the eyeballs and groin if they feared for their lives. To act aggressively immediately and as soon as the attacker was on defense, make a run for it.
With a concealed weapon, I have an alternative because I know that the odds are at least even and likely tilted in my favor. I have many more options.
I tend to be ok with behaving like a sissy to avoid confrontation or escalation as long as I am armed. I think it is because I ma confident and feel less threatened. I am very humble and polite when confrontation arises these days.
I don’t want anyone knowing I have a firearm, and I don’t wan’t to ever have to use it. It’s my ace in the hole, and part of it’s value is knowing that it will be completely unsuspected when it is called upon for use. You have a totally new perspective and priorities when you know that an argument can potentially escalate to the taking of a life. Suddenly posturing and machismo is irrelevant, foolhardy, and even irresponsible. The fore-brain must prevail.