Small Changes to Prepare for Big Moments

"So, you want to be a survivalist? Awesome. But here’s the truth: Before you learn to start a fire or build a shelter, you need to sort yourself out first. Why? Because survival isn’t just about cool gear or YouTube-worthy bushcraft skills—it’s about having the mindset and discipline to tackle life’s chaos head-on. Let’s dive into how to get started."

Step 1: Survival Starts With Self-Improvement

Let’s be real: If your life is a mess now, how do you expect to handle an actual survival situation? Self-improvement isn’t just some fluffy “self-help” nonsense—it’s the foundation of surviving and thriving. Why? Because when you’re organized and prepared, you avoid unnecessary pain. Science backs this up: A study from the University of Georgia found that teens who stick to routines report better self-control and emotional stability. Translation? Get your act together, and life gets easier.

Step 2: Fix What’s Bugging You Right Now

Survival is all about tackling the small problems before they become big ones. Start simple. Look around your room. Is it a disaster zone? Spend 10 minutes fixing one thing—organize your desk, throw out that mystery snack wrapper, or finally deal with that pile of laundry.

Why does this matter? Because taking control of your environment builds momentum. Clean room = clear head. And trust me, when things get tough, a clear head is your best weapon.

Step 3: Nail Your Daily Routines (Yes, They Matter!)

Here’s the thing: Most of survival isn’t about dramatic rescues or extreme situations. It’s the boring, everyday stuff—eating, sleeping, brushing your teeth—that keeps you alive and functional. Studies show that consistent routines help reduce stress and boost mental clarity. So yeah, brushing your teeth and making your bed might not feel like survival skills, but they’re the foundation for handling anything life throws at you.

Step 4: Focus on What You Can Control

Look, you’re not going to solve global warming or fix the economy tomorrow. But you can learn how to purify water, tie a knot, or pack a basic survival kit. The secret to building confidence is starting small and staying realistic. This isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Bonus: Every little skill you master boosts your ability to handle bigger challenges down the road.

Step 5: Set Goals That Actually Matter

Here’s a survivalist pro tip: “You see what you aim at.” If you spend all your time thinking about how unprepared you are, you’ll stay stuck. But if you set clear, simple goals—like learning one survival skill a week—you’ll start to see progress everywhere.

Not sure where to start? Try this:

• Week 1: Learn how to tie a bowline knot.

• Week 2: Figure out how to boil water without a stove.

• Week 3: Research what to pack in a bug-out bag.

Small wins build big momentum. Choose your targets wisely, because they shape how you see the world.

Step 6: Be the Hero of Your Own Story

Here’s where it gets real. Survivalism is about more than gear and techniques—it’s about facing your own chaos and turning it into order. Think of yourself as the hero in a story. Heroes don’t shy away from challenges; they face them, even when it’s hard.

Sure, it’s uncomfortable to admit you need to change. Maybe you’re lazy, unorganized, or quick to give up. That’s okay—acknowledging those flaws is the first step to overcoming them. Growth is messy and painful, but it’s the only way forward.

Step 7: Believe in Your Own Growth

No one’s expecting you to be Bear Grylls overnight. The key is to start small, stay consistent, and believe that you can get better. Every step you take—whether it’s cleaning your room, learning a skill, or just sticking to a bedtime—is a step closer to becoming the kind of person who thrives under pressure.

Final Thought: Your Survival Journey Starts Today

Being a survivalist isn’t about waiting for some disaster to hit. It’s about becoming the kind of person who can handle anything life throws at them. Start small. Fix one thing. Set one goal. Learn one skill.

And hey, if you’re ready to dive deeper, check out Teen Survivor Project’s other posts. Because the best time to start was yesterday. The second-best time is now..