I for one have always been hyper aware of my surroundings. You’re right though, a lot of people aren’t.
Most people who carry only have basic training.
I have been taking advanced classes and competed in many different shooting activities over the last 20 years.
I don't carry as much as i used to, mainly because i live in an area with almost zero crime.
But when i go to other places i carry a Glock 43 and have a tactical knife that is great for close encounters.
If you understand how to maintain and create space in a situation, a pistol is going to always come out on top.
Like you said, always be aware of your surroundings and don't corner yourself anywhere you go.
I've been in some bad situations before and thankfully was able to get out of the situation without issues.
I always tell people, if you see me suddenly get up and motion to leave, it's probably best to follow.
A few years ago i saw an altercation between a group of thugs beginning in a restaurant and could tell it was escalating. I grabbed my GF's arm and said let's go, she tried to ask me a bunch of questions so i just walked out of the place. About 2 minutes later two guys got stabbed 20-feet from where we were sitting.