"The mind is everything. What you think you become." - Buddha
BLUF: Mindset is the first critical step to beginning the preparatory process, regardless of the activity. Strong mind can lead to a strong constitution, strong body, a better developed skill-set, and ultimately less fear, less anxiety, and thereby less stress.
Introduction:
Achieving any goal, from mastering a skill to conquering a physical challenge, hinges on one crucial element: mindset. It's the foundation upon which our actions and perseverance are built, shaping how we navigate setbacks and celebrate triumphs. This principle holds true even in the face of unforeseen circumstances, such as preparing for a disaster. By cultivating a positive, proactive mindset towards emergency preparedness, we empower ourselves to not only survive but thrive in the face of adversity.
"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." - Nelson Mandela
The World is Changing - Wake Up:
Most inherently know the world is changing, one can feel it in their bones. Yet, many refuse to acknowledge this feeling. They fail to accept what their eyes and ears are telling them. They shut themselves from the outside world, burying their head in the sand like the proverbial ostrich.
Without acknowledging change, a universal law, one cannot progress mentally or spiritually. Willful and purposeful ignorance is akin to sin, it is the slow road to nowhere, it is its own purgatory. Developing the tools for a strong mindset can overcome this trend, allowing one to step out of their comfort zone, and grow as a person, and ultimately assist larger community become free from the tightening shackles of tyranny.
"The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be." - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Below is a short, incomplete list, of some of the factors driving change. Change is inevitable. What shape that change will take, is not.
Mass Immigration: The influx of economic migrants into Western nations, often with vastly different cultural, religious, and linguistic backgrounds, is significantly reshaping communities and societies. This rapid demographic shift can lead to social tensions, strained resources, increased criminality, and overall change.
Escalating Regional Conflicts: The ongoing war in Ukraine, the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and numerous flashpoints like Venezuela-Guyana, Western Africa, Eastern Africa, the Koreas, and China-Taiwan are destabilizing entire regions and impacting global security. These conflicts have the potential to spill over, triggering wider geopolitical consequences, to include food price increases, supply-chain shortages, oil production and delivery challenges and thereby price changes and scarcity.
Global Financial Instability: The world is nearing the end of a long-term debt cycle, leaving many nations burdened with massive debt. This can lead to financial crises, bank failures, and economic volatility, impacting individuals, businesses, and entire economies. Once a threshold is hit, many countries face austerity measures, cutbacks to social programs, often during times of the greatest need.
Rising Crime Rates: A complex interplay of factors, including economic hardship, social inequality, and societal disruptions, along with numerous purposeful political decisions, are contributing to a rise in crime rates in various regions. This poses a significant challenge to public safety and social order.
Power Dynamics in Times of Crisis: Central banks, corporations, and even secretive groups may engage in various strategies to maintain or expand their influence during difficult times. This could involve lobbying for favorable policies, manipulating markets, or exerting undue influence on leadership decisions, to include stimulating chaotic events to bring about a “new order” under a preconceived pathway or agenda.
These are just some of the significant factors rapidly reshaping our world and creating a future vastly different from what we knew just five years ago. The interplay of these forces will continue to challenge individuals, communities, and nations, demanding adaptability, resilience, and innovative solutions to navigate the complexities of the 21st century, demanding a new mindset, one of self-reliance and resiliency.
Normalcy Bias Shattered - CHAZ/CHOP Scenario:
In May 2020, the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis sparked nationwide protests against police brutality and systemic racism. These protests, often fueled by the rallying cry "Black Lives Matter," demanded reforms within law enforcement and ignited a renewed conversation about racial justice in America, resulting in the defunding of police departments nationwide. Amidst this national movement, the city of Seattle (a largely ‘gun-free’ city) witnessed its own unique response: the rise and fall of the Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone (CHAZ), also known as CHOP. This brief experiment in self-governance, born from the defund the police movement, aimed to create a space free from traditional policing, but ultimately faced numerous challenges, a rise in criminality, a few murders, and finally was forcefully disbanded within weeks.12
"The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven." - John Milton
The CHAZ/CHOP experiment, initially envisioned as a utopian space for social justice and community, quickly devolved into a microcosm of the very challenges it sought to address. While the initial days were filled with optimism and a sense of collective purpose, the harsh realities of maintaining a self-sustaining society soon set in.
Take Sarah (identity masked), a young artist who joined the movement with idealistic fervor. Accustomed to the quiet bustle of her Capitol Hill neighborhood, she was unprepared for the escalating tensions within the zone. The constant reports of gunfire shattered her sense of security, a stark contrast to the normalcy bias she had unknowingly held. "It felt like a movie, something happening somewhere else," she confessed, "but the fear was real, creeping in every time a siren wailed."3
John (identity masked), a local restaurant owner who initially supported the occupation, witnessed firsthand the logistical hurdles of maintaining basic necessities. His attempts to barter for essential supplies proved increasingly difficult, and the dream of self-sufficiency through urban agriculture quickly faded. "We were naive," he admitted, "we thought it would be like a community garden, but the reality was far more complex."4
The lack of established governance and security forces further exacerbated the situation. Without a clear hierarchy or leadership structure, disagreements festered, and the initial sense of unity fractured. The idealistic vision of a peaceful utopia clashed with the harsh realities of human nature, exposing the limitations of an unprepared community.
As days turned into weeks, the initial optimism gave way to disillusionment. The normalcy bias that had blinded many to the possibility of such drastic change shattered, leaving behind a sense of vulnerability and disappointment. The CHAZ/CHOP experiment, ultimately served as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness, both in terms of material resources and mental fortitude. Overcoming recency and normalcy bias is crucial in navigating an ever-changing world, and the CHAZ/CHOP story serves as a cautionary tale for those who underestimate the complexities of societal upheaval.
Conquering Catastrophe:
While achieving any goal requires a strong mindset, the stakes become even higher when preparing for unforeseen circumstances like disasters. Our natural tendencies, however, can often work against us. Recency bias leads us to believe that the present normalcy will continue indefinitely, while normalcy bias blinds us to the possibility of drastic change. The recent COVID-19 pandemic serves as a stark reminder that life can shift dramatically in an instant. Moreover, the world we live in today faces unprecedented challenges, with many experts suggesting we are entering a period of significant societal upheaval. This can be overwhelming, making it difficult to muster the motivation and willpower to embark on the seemingly daunting task of disaster preparedness.
However, history is filled with examples of individuals and communities overcoming these very challenges through the power of a positive mindset. During the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, American farmers faced unimaginable hardship as drought and dust storms ravaged their land. Many succumbed to despair and abandoned their homes, but others, like the "soddies" of Nebraska, chose a different path. Recognizing the need for collective action, they adopted innovative farming practices like contour plowing and windbreaks, demonstrating the power of proactive preparation in the face of adversity.56
Similarly, the Rwandan genocide of 1994 witnessed acts of extraordinary courage and resilience amidst unimaginable brutality. Ordinary citizens, like Paul Rusesabagina, who sheltered over 1,200 refugees in his hotel, defied overwhelming odds by choosing empathy and compassion over fear and despair. These stories serve as powerful testaments to the human spirit's ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges when fueled by a positive mindset and a commitment to action.7
Cultivating a prepper mindset starts with a single, powerful belief: it is possible. By adopting a positive outlook and acknowledging the potential for disruption, we empower ourselves to take action. This doesn't require immediate mastery of complex survival skills; instead, it begins with small, achievable steps. Learning basic first aid, acquiring essential supplies, or even researching local resources can significantly boost your preparedness and, more importantly, your sense of control. As you develop these new skills as mental tools, you'll not only be better equipped to handle unforeseen situations but also experience a newfound sense of calm and confidence. The realization that you have a plan, a backup, and the ability to face challenges head-on fosters resilience and empowers you to navigate change with greater self-reliance. Remember, preparedness is not about predicting the future; it's about taking charge of the present and creating a foundation for a more secure future, one step at a time.
By learning from the experiences of those who have overcome adversity in the past and adopting a proactive mindset, we can equip ourselves to navigate the challenges of our own changing world. The power lies not in predicting the future, but in building the resilience and self-reliance necessary to face whatever may come.
Tools for Growth:
Not everyone has the inherent motivation, confidence, or desire to take care of themselves, let alone others. Cultural indoctrination has weakened society, made entire populations wholly dependent on others for every basic need (food, water, shelter, protection). However, there are mental tools that can assist in overcoming these factors.
Growth Mindset: This concept, popularized by Carol Dweck, emphasizes the belief that our abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and learning. This mindset fosters resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges, as individuals believe they can improve with dedication.
Positive Outlook: Maintaining a positive outlook, even in difficult situations, is crucial for maintaining motivation and taking action. Resources like "The Obstacle Is the Way" encourage reframing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
Self-Reliance and Resourcefulness: Developing the ability to rely on oneself and utilize available resources effectively is essential for overcoming challenges. Books like "Prepping for Tomorrow" and websites like Ready.gov provide practical guidance on building self-sufficiency.
Taking Action: Merely having a positive mindset is not enough. All resources emphasize the importance of taking concrete steps towards preparedness, whether it's learning new skills, acquiring essential supplies, or developing a plan.
Community and Support: Connecting with others who share similar goals can be a valuable source of motivation and support. Online communities, podcasts like "The Prepper's Guide to Everything," and local preparedness groups can provide a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Adaptability and Continuous Learning: The world is constantly changing, and being prepared requires the ability to adapt and learn new things. Resources encourage individuals to stay informed, develop new skills, and be flexible in their approach to challenges.
Finding Meaning and Purpose: Framing preparedness within a larger purpose, such as protecting oneself and loved ones, can provide additional motivation and meaning to the process. This theme is often explored in military veteran memoirs like "Left Alive."
By incorporating these common themes and actively engaging with the various resources, individuals can develop a strong mindset, build resilience, and acquire the tools necessary to navigate challenges and overcome obstacles. Remember, cultivating a strong mindset is an ongoing process, and consistent effort and dedication are key to achieving success.
Resources for Cultivating a Stronger Mindset:
Books:
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck: This classic book explores the power of our mindsets and how they shape our success in various aspects of life.
Left Alive: Lessons from Vietnam by L.R. "Dick" Vandiver: This memoir details Vandiver's experiences as a Navy SEAL during the Vietnam War. He shares his insights on leadership, teamwork, and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday: This book teaches how to turn obstacles into opportunities and develop resilience in the face of challenges.
Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder by Nassim Nicholas Taleb: This book explores the concept of antifragility, which is the ability to not only survive but thrive in the face of volatility and uncertainty.
Videos:
TED Talk: The power of believing that you can improve by Carol Dweck: This inspiring TED Talk by Carol Dweck delves deeper into the concept of growth mindset and its impact on success.
National Geographic Documentary: Surviving the Apocalypse This documentary explores various scenarios of potential disasters and showcases real-life stories of individuals and communities who have prepared for them.
How to Build a Survival Mindset by The Prepper Journal: This video from The Prepper Journal offers practical tips and strategies for developing a strong mindset for disaster preparedness.
Podcasts:
The Prepper's Guide to Everything: A podcast exploring various aspects of disaster preparedness, featuring interviews with experts and practical advice.
The Survival Podcast: A podcast focusing on self-reliance, survival skills, and preparedness for various emergencies.
The Series:
This is part of series. Part 1 introduced the broad framework of prepping. Part 2, this substack article focused on mindset and mental resiliency. In future prepping articles, specific topics will be explored to begin the concrete steps of preparatory action to develop greater self-reliance and resiliency. Change starts from the ground up. A self-resilient population can more effectively demand change and say no to governmental manipulation.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capitol_Hill_Occupied_Protest
https://www.historylink.org/
https://www.npr.org/2020/06/14/876714162/a-look-at-whats-happening-in-seattle-s-capitol-hill-autonomous-zone
https://www.seattletimes.com/life/through-many-moods-and-fast-changing-times-seattles-chop-refines-its-purpose/
https://news.unl.edu/newsrooms/today/article/land-cover-changes-likely-intensified-dust-bowl-drought/
https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/america-the-story-of-us-videos-dust-bowl
https://www.ushmm.org/genocide-prevention/countries/rwanda