One of the questions that we are asked the most is, “What does EDC stand for?”
This article answers that question and takes it a step further by explaining why your EDC is something you should care, and think, about.
What does EDC stand for?
Let’s start with a simple definition. EDC stands for “Everyday Carry.” The term refers to those items that you carry, usually on your person, every day.
Now, before the internet heroes weigh in with their own definitions, let’s agree that there are all kinds of EDC and all kinds of ways to carry your EDC. We’re not going that deep here, so we’re keeping the definition simple.
We all have certain things that we carry with us every day. Key, wallet or purse, cell phone, etc. Those things are part of your EDC. But here at BRED, we are all about developing a readiness mindset, so let’s take the concept of EDC just a little further.
Why have an EDC plan?
As a young man in Scouts, our motto was “Be Prepared” and we always tried to live by that. Anyone who knows anything about Scouting will tell you that it is rare to find a scout without their pocket knife, simply because it is such a versatile tool.
When I was in the military, there were certain things that I had to carry every day in order to do my job effectively. Yes, I was issued a bag of tools, but I was much more likely to use my electrician’s knife, my multitool or a simple flashlight than I was to go digging in my bag of tools.
When I retired from active duty, I spent some time working in the Security sector. For that job, I had to carry a duty belt with (you guessed it!) a flashlight and a multitool, plus some first aid, handcuffs, and a radio.
You might have noticed a trend. Stay with me.
When I moved into the business world and started working from home, my level of readiness began to wane simply because I was home most of the time. If I left the house, it was usually for a quick trip out and back that seemed inconsequential.
Then, during one very strange week, I realized that I missed my knife and flashlight! I remembered that my tools help make my day-to-day life a little easier and give me peace of mind.
EDC is about using the right tool for the right job
I know a lot of people who will tell me that their cell phone is their flashlight. Great! When the power goes out, they quickly realize that the phone battery dies fast when you use it for light.
My flashlight can’t call 911 and my phone won’t light my way.
And, my goodness, if I had a nickel for every time someone has asked me if I have a knife (or a scissors) that they can borrow!
No, knives and flashlights aren’t the only tools you may want to carry in your EDC. They certainly aren’t the only tools I carry every day. I’m just using them to illustrate the point because they are two of the most popular, and useful, EDC items you might think about.
What should be in your EDC?
I invite you to sit back and think about just the last week. How many times did you find yourself wishing you had a certain item?
If you said zero, you’re not thinking hard enough.
It could be as simple as a pen which, in today’s environment I definitely want to have with me rather than using someone elses. What was it? EDC stands for those things that you need to take care of you and yours, every day.
If I find myself looking for, or wish I had, something more than once in a week, I consider whether I should add that item to my EDC.
A readiness mindset is not about carrying the kitchen sink with you. No matter how ready you think you are, there will always be something that trips you up. Readiness is about considering the most likely scenarios that you may expect to face in your day and taking steps to prepare yourself for those things.
It’s a great brain exercise and an interesting way to challenge yourself.
For another way to look at EDC, check out, Everyday Carry Essentials for the College Student.
What did you remember from your review of last week? What will you add to your EDC? And, if you’re already carrying tools with you every day, what are they?
Leave a comment below and share your ideas!
Featured image by Thomas B. from Pixabay