Over the years, I’ve worked with hundreds of organizations that share a common phrase when it comes to safety and security: “We know it’s an issue, we just haven’t done anything about it yet.”
That mindset has a name I often use with our clients: admiring the problem. It’s when we see the risks clearly, talk about them in meetings, maybe even document them in a report, but stop short of taking action. It’s not that people don’t care. In fact, most leaders deeply care about protecting their teams and communities. But understanding a problem feels safer and more manageable than confronting it.
Why We Get Stuck “Admiring the Problem”
There are many reasons organizations stay in this space. Sometimes it’s feels overwhelming, the sheer scope of what could go wrong feels too big to tackle. Sometimes it’s uncertainty, leaders aren’t sure where to start, or worry about doing it “wrong.” And sometimes it’s competing priorities, safety isn’t ignored, it’s just waiting behind other fires that feel more immediate.
But here’s the truth: when it comes to safety and security, waiting rarely makes things easier. The longer we “admire” a problem, the more it can quietly grow—through complacency, untrained staff, outdated plans, or gaps that go unnoticed until it’s too late.
From Awareness to Action
Preparation doesn’t have to mean overhauling your entire system overnight. It simply starts with taking one step forward: conducting a risk assessment, reviewing your emergency plans, or training your team on how to respond under pressure.
At SEC, we often tell leaders that the goal isn’t perfection, it’s progress. Every small, intentional step you take builds readiness, confidence, and a culture where safety isn’t just a box to check—it’s part of how you lead. The organizations that move from “admiring” to acting don’t do it because they have unlimited resources or expertise. They do it because they choose to take ownership of what’s within their control—starting today, not someday.
A Simple Challenge
As you think about the months ahead, ask yourself and your team: “Are we still admiring the problem—or are we finally ready to solve it?”
If you’re ready to take that first step, our team at SEC is here to help you get started. No pressure, no fear tactics, just clear, practical solutions that can help you take the next best step towards prevention. Because safety isn’t just something we talk about; it’s something we build.
Meet the Author
Jason Russell: President + Founder of SEC and a former Secret Service agent. He leads a national team of safety and security experts dedicated to helping organizations prepare for the unexpected through assessment, planning, and training.