I carry mine holstered (not in the pocket, with or without a pocket holster), so I carry with the safety in the "off" position.

I carried/still carry a 1911 frequently, so cocked and locked is second nature to me. That having been said, the safety lever on the Shield is too small for me. I would prefer one of two things: either a larger safety lever, like those on the larger M&P guns with the manual safety; or no safety. The gun, as far as guns go, is perfectly "safe" without the manual safety engaged.

I know a no-safety M&P can be converted to have a safety. Wish I could go in the other direction with my Shields !