You know what? Prepping doesn’t have to mean building a bunker in your backyard or stockpiling enough canned beans to last a lifetime. Sure, the idea of being ready for anything can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.
The truth is, the prepping mindset is less about paranoia and more about practicality. It’s about thinking ahead, staying adaptable, and finding a balance between preparedness and everyday life.
So, how do you adopt a survivalist mindset without going overboard? Let’s break it down.
What Does It Mean to Think Like a Survivalist?
Thinking like a survivalist isn’t about expecting the worst at every turn. It’s about being aware of your surroundings, understanding potential risks, and having a plan—just in case. It’s the same mindset that makes you check the weather before a hike or keep a spare tire in your car. The difference? Survivalists take it a step further.
Here’s the thing: survivalists don’t just react to emergencies; they anticipate them. They ask questions like, “What if the power goes out for a week?” or “What if I can’t get to a grocery store for a month?” These aren’t fear-driven questions—they’re practical. And honestly, isn’t it better to have a plan and not need it than to need a plan and not have it?
The survivalist mindset is rooted in awareness and foresight. It’s about recognizing that life is unpredictable and taking steps to mitigate that unpredictability. This doesn’t mean living in constant fear of disaster; it means being prepared to handle whatever comes your way. It’s a proactive approach to life that emphasizes self-reliance and resourcefulness.
At its core, thinking like a survivalist means embracing a problem-solving mentality. It’s about looking at challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. For example, if you’re faced with a power outage, a survivalist doesn’t just sit in the dark—they find ways to generate light, stay warm, and keep their family safe. This mindset isn’t just useful in emergencies; it’s a valuable life skill that can help you navigate everyday challenges with confidence.
But let’s dig deeper. What does this mindset look like in practice? It’s about cultivating a sense of curiosity and a willingness to learn. Survivalists are constantly asking, “How does this work?” or “What would I do if…?” This curiosity drives them to acquire new skills and knowledge, whether it’s learning how to purify water or understanding the basics of self-defense.
It’s also about being observant. Survivalists pay attention to their environment, noticing potential hazards and opportunities. For example, they might notice a natural water source while hiking or identify a safe shelter location during a storm. This heightened awareness can make all the difference in an emergency.
Finally, thinking like a survivalist means being resourceful. It’s about making the most of what you have, even when resources are limited. This might mean using a bandana as a makeshift sling or repurposing everyday items for survival tasks. Resourcefulness is a skill that can be developed over time, and it’s one of the hallmarks of a true survivalist.
The Core Principles of the Prepping Mindset
1. Start Small, Think Big
You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Start with the basics: a first-aid kit, some extra water, and a few non-perishable foods. Once you’ve got that covered, you can expand to more advanced preps like learning basic medical skills or setting up a rainwater collection system.
The key is to build gradually. Think of it like learning to cook. You don’t start with a five-course meal; you start with scrambled eggs. The same principle applies to prepping. Begin with the essentials and gradually add to your skills and supplies as you become more comfortable.
Starting small also helps you avoid feeling overwhelmed. Prepping can seem like a massive undertaking, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it more approachable. For example, you might start by creating a 72-hour emergency kit for your home. Once that’s done, you can move on to building a bug-out bag for your car.
The beauty of starting small is that it allows you to build confidence as you go. Each new skill you learn or item you add to your supplies reinforces your sense of preparedness. Over time, these small steps add up to a comprehensive plan that can help you handle a wide range of emergencies.
But what does “starting small” actually look like? Let’s break it down further.
- First Aid Kit: A basic first-aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you or your family might need. You can buy a pre-made kit or assemble your own.
- Water Storage: The general rule is to have at least one gallon of water per person per day. Start by storing enough water for three days, then gradually increase to two weeks or more.
- Food Supplies: Begin with non-perishable items like canned goods, rice, and pasta. Don’t forget a manual can opener! Over time, you can add freeze-dried meals, MREs (Meals Ready to Eat), and other long-term storage options.
- Emergency Lighting: Flashlights, headlamps, and lanterns are essential. Don’t forget extra batteries or consider solar-powered options.
- Communication: A battery-powered or hand-crank radio can keep you informed during a power outage.
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can move on to more advanced preps, like learning how to purify water or build a solar-powered generator. The key is to take it one step at a time.
2. Adaptability Is Everything
Survivalists thrive on adaptability. They know that no plan is foolproof, so they stay flexible. For example, if you’ve prepped for a hurricane but a wildfire breaks out instead, can you adjust your strategy? Being able to pivot is just as important as having supplies.
Adaptability is about more than just having a backup plan; it’s about being able to think on your feet and make decisions under pressure. This requires a combination of knowledge, creativity, and confidence. The more you practice adapting to different situations, the better you’ll become at it.
One way to build adaptability is to simulate emergencies. For example, you might spend a weekend camping with only the supplies in your bug-out bag. This forces you to think creatively and make do with what you have. It’s a great way to test your skills and identify areas where you need improvement.
Another key aspect of adaptability is staying informed. The more you know about potential risks and how to handle them, the better prepared you’ll be to adapt to changing circumstances. This means staying up-to-date on weather forecasts, local news, and other relevant information.
But adaptability isn’t just about reacting to emergencies; it’s also about being proactive. For example, if you know a storm is coming, you might adjust your preps to include extra blankets or a backup heat source. Being proactive allows you to stay one step ahead of potential challenges.
3. Knowledge Is Your Best Tool
Gear is great, but knowledge is better. A survivalist knows how to use what they have, whether it’s a multi-tool or a roll of duct tape. Take the time to learn skills like fire-starting, navigation, and basic first aid. You’d be surprised how far a little know-how can take you.
Knowledge is the foundation of preparedness. Without it, even the best gear is useless. For example, having a high-quality water filter is great, but if you don’t know how to use it properly, it won’t do you much good in an emergency.
Investing time in learning survival skills is one of the best things you can do to prepare for emergencies. Start with the basics, like how to purify water, build a shelter, and start a fire. As you become more confident, you can move on to more advanced skills, like wilderness first aid or foraging for edible plants.
One of the best ways to learn is through hands-on practice. Reading about survival skills is helpful, but there’s no substitute for actually doing them. Consider taking a survival course or joining a local prepping group where you can practice skills with others.
But knowledge isn’t just about skills; it’s also about understanding your environment. For example, knowing which plants in your area are edible or which animals are dangerous can be invaluable in a survival situation. Take the time to learn about the natural world around you—it could save your life.
4. Community Matters
Prepping isn’t a solo sport. Building relationships with like-minded people can make all the difference in an emergency. Whether it’s sharing resources or pooling skills, a strong community is a survivalist’s greatest asset.
Humans are social creatures, and we’re stronger together than we are alone. In an emergency, having a network of people you can rely on can be a lifesaver. This might include family, friends, neighbors, or members of a prepping group.
Building a prepping community starts with finding people who share your mindset. Look for local groups or online forums where you can connect with others who are interested in preparedness. Once you’ve found your tribe, focus on building trust and collaboration.
A strong prepping community is built on mutual support. This means sharing resources, skills, and knowledge. For example, if you’re skilled at gardening, you might teach others how to grow their own food. In return, someone else might share their expertise in first aid or self-defense.
But community isn’t just about practical support; it’s also about emotional resilience. In a crisis, having people you can rely on for moral support can make a huge difference. Knowing that you’re not alone can help you stay calm and focused, even in the most challenging situations.
How to Prep Without Losing Your Mind
Let’s be real: prepping can feel like a rabbit hole. One minute you’re buying a flashlight, and the next you’re researching the best gas masks on the market. Here’s how to keep it in check:
Set Realistic Goals
Focus on what’s most likely to happen in your area. If you live in a region prone to earthquakes, prioritize earthquake preparedness. If you’re in a rural area, think about long-term food storage. Tailor your preps to your lifestyle and environment.
Setting realistic goals helps you stay focused and avoid getting overwhelmed. Start by identifying the most likely risks you’ll face, whether it’s natural disasters, economic instability, or something else. Then, prioritize your preps based on those risks.
For example, if you live in an area prone to hurricanes, your first priority might be creating an evacuation plan and assembling a hurricane kit. Once that’s done, you can move on to other preps, like learning how to purify water or build a temporary shelter.
But setting realistic goals isn’t just about identifying risks; it’s also about understanding your own limitations. Prepping can be time-consuming and expensive, so it’s important to set goals that are achievable given your resources.
Avoid the Fear Spiral
It’s easy to get caught up in worst-case scenarios, but fear can cloud your judgment. Instead of obsessing over every possible disaster, focus on what you can control. Remember, prepping is about empowerment, not anxiety.
Fear is a natural response to uncertainty, but it can also be paralyzing. The key is to channel that fear into productive action. Instead of worrying about what might happen, focus on what you can do to prepare.
One way to avoid the fear spiral is to limit your exposure to sensationalist media. While it’s important to stay informed, constantly consuming doom-and-gloom news can fuel anxiety. Instead, seek out reliable sources of information and focus on practical steps you can take to prepare.
Another way to manage fear is to focus on the positive aspects of prepping. Instead of thinking about all the things that could go wrong, think about how prepared you’ll be if something does happen. This shift in mindset can help you stay motivated and focused.
Balance Prepping with Everyday Life
You don’t have to turn your home into a survivalist compound. Keep your preps organized and out of the way so they don’t take over your life. A well-stocked pantry or a closet with emergency supplies is all most people need.
Prepping should enhance your life, not dominate it. The goal is to be prepared without sacrificing your quality of life. This means finding a balance between preparedness and everyday living.
One way to achieve this balance is to integrate prepping into your daily routine. For example, you might start by stocking up on a few extra non-perishable items each time you go grocery shopping. Over time, this will build up a reserve of food without requiring a major upfront investment.
Another way to balance prepping with everyday life is to keep your supplies organized and accessible. This might mean dedicating a specific closet or shelf to your emergency supplies. Keeping everything in one place makes it easier to manage and ensures that you can find what you need in an emergency.
But balance isn’t just about physical organization; it’s also about mental organization. Prepping can be mentally taxing, so it’s important to take breaks and focus on other aspects of your life. Remember, prepping is just one part of a well-rounded life.
Tools and Resources to Get You Started
Here are a few practical items and skills to consider as you build your prepping foundation:
Essential Gear
- A reliable multi-tool (like a Leatherman)
- A high-quality flashlight (Fenix and Streamlight are solid brands)
- A portable water filter (Sawyer or LifeStraw are great options)
- A sturdy backpack for your bug-out bag
Skills to Learn
- Basic first aid and CPR
- How to start a fire without matches
- Navigation using a map and compass
- Gardening and food preservation
The Emotional Side of Prepping
Prepping isn’t just about physical readiness; it’s also about mental resilience. Emergencies are stressful, and how you handle that stress can make or break your survival.
Here’s a thought: have you ever noticed how some people stay calm in a crisis while others panic? It’s not just luck—it’s mindset. Survivalists train themselves to stay focused under pressure. They practice problem-solving and decision-making in high-stress situations.
You can build this resilience by simulating emergencies. For example, try spending a weekend without electricity or cooking with only the ingredients in your pantry. These small challenges can help you stay calm when it really counts.
When Prepping Goes Too Far
Let’s address the elephant in the room: prepping can become an obsession. If you find yourself spending more time worrying about disasters than living your life, it might be time to reassess.
The goal of prepping isn’t to eliminate all risk—it’s to manage it. You can’t prepare for every possible scenario, and that’s okay. Focus on what’s practical and let go of the rest.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Balance
At its core, the prepping mindset is about taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. It’s not about fear; it’s about confidence. When you’re prepared, you can face challenges head-on, knowing you’ve done everything you can to protect yourself and your loved ones.
So, start small, stay adaptable, and remember: prepping is a journey, not a destination. You don’t have to be a hardcore survivalist to think like one. All it takes is a little foresight, a dash of creativity, and the willingness to take that first step.
You’ve got this. Now, what’s your first prep going to be?
This article was submitted by Dale Harrison.
Other Useful Resources:
Drinking Water Survival Myths You Should Know
How to obtain water from the air
Decontamination Procedures and Sterilization of Water
Knowledge to survive any medical crisis situation during a major disaster