To get in the right headspace, train until your body knows the item so well, it is a part of you, that way your mind will focus on your goal – to protect yourself; listen to music that pumps you up while you practice; learn to reinterpret pain as a step on the path to victory; visualize yourself fighting, defending, and winning; most importantly, learn to love it.
Respect and regard the weapon, understand its effects and know how to administer aid if necessary.