All hell will break loose in this country when our current system of living breaks down. A potential economic collapse, the emergence of a totalitarian government and limited resources are just a few things that keep many of us up at night, thinking of how to escape the brunt of these challenges. However, there are too many unknowns and variables that make planning and preparing adequately a big challenge and gamble. Let’s talk about three things that will help you to cover your bases while remaining focused.
Learn to defend yourself
There is an impression out there that a man with a gun will get what he wants most of the time. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security that the mere act of having a gun will solve your problems. A weapon is a tool that, in all reality, is only useful in a handful of situations. Don’t count on it to get you out of every situation, every time. Focus on learning how to use a knife, to work with other weapons and practice hand-to-hand combat.
You want to be able to out-think, out-smart and out-perform a threat or an attacker quickly and decisively. That being said, developing a wide-range of skills can go a long way when it comes to dealing with a threat. Learn self-defense and practice until it becomes second nature. No amount of food, supplies or tricks up your sleeve will keep you from the grasp of an attacker unless you know how to defend yourself.
Be prepared to be flexible
We build stockpiles in our shelter. We have our bug-out-bags and vehicles kitted out for the big day. We have plans in place and scenarios worked out in our heads. However, there’s a good chance that none of them will work in the real world. The biggest advantage to practicing, drilling and preparing is to give our brains the experience of acting through various contingencies. We are learning how to think outside of the box, to make good judgment calls and to act accordingly.
Don’t place too much of a reliance on what you’ve done to prepare. Focus on being ready to switch gears and make good choices with little notice or warning. Being quick on your feet and learning how to adapt will be what saves you over the course of time.
Learn How to Bargain
We’ve gotten so used to shopping for things sold at a fixed price that we’ve forgotten how to negotiate. This is a skill that each of us needs to develop in order to succeed in world where a can of food may be worth more than a car. There are no hard-and-fast rules to bargaining other than you want to walk away with something that you want without giving up something that you need. Be judicious, consider your needs and avoid the fear of getting ripped off during the negotiating process. Get comfortable with the process and always be the one who is in control.
These are not all of the skills that you will need when the SHTF, but they will help you tremendously. Remember, that survival in a collapsed society is going to involve tenacity, adaptability and a strong sense of self-preservation. Build these skills now and you will be in a much better position later.
