Have you ever been caught in a situation where the thought “I should’ve seen this coming!” crossed your mind? It is likely that you have, life is unpredictable even when we do our best to be prepared for anything and everything. Today we’re looking into the idea of being prepared for anything. Yes, anything. From alien invasions to your mother-in-law’s surprise visits, we’ve got you covered.
Your New Best Friend: Make A List
Do you have a list? This is no longer an annoying question only asked by your life partner. They’re not just for groceries anymore. Imagine having a list for every possible scenario. Lists are the products of a “What If” type risk assessment and they can literally be life-saving. Think of a ‘Lost in the Wilderness’ list featuring a compass, matches, and a flare gun. The key is to tailor these lists to your unique lifestyle and to the biggest threats you can think of.
For instance, if you live in an area riddled with crime, it would make sense to have a “What if someone breaks into my home at night?”. Now, it is easy for your mind to fall into the deep, dark, intricate web of outlandish, crazy scenarios, so guard against that and think practically. What if your car battery died while at work? Did you leave the stove on before you left home? What if your phone dies while you are out of town? These more practical lists will help you solve everyday type challenges and improve your overall sense of preparedness.
The Survival Kit: Not Just For Scouts
Remember the Boy Scouts’ motto? Be prepared. They were onto something. Your survival kit should be a portable lifeline of practicality. It should have a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, and maybe a Swiss Army knife (because who knows when you’ll need a corkscrew?). Keep this kit in an easily accessible spot. Remember, it’s not being paranoid if it’s well-organized! The reason why a survival kit is so important is because it can literally save your life in the event of an accident or incident. You don’t want to be the person who says, “If only I had…” when something bad happens.
Knowledge Is Power: But You Don’t Need to Know Everything
It’s impossible to be an expert at everything, but knowing a little about a lot can go a long way. For example, learning basic first aid can be a game-changer. Knowing how to change a tire? Priceless. Don’t forget to familiarize yourself with local emergency services. And while you’re at it, maybe learn how to say “Help, I’m lost!” in a few languages. How to read a paper map, how to make a fire, how to build a natural shelter. There is the odd chance that you might never use any of it, or you just might survive because you knew what to do in a bad scenario.
Tech Savvy: There’s An App for That
In this digital age, being prepared can be as simple as downloading the right apps. Weather alerts, GPS tracking, survival guides – there’s an app for almost every scenario. Just remember to keep your devices charged. Maybe invest in a solar-powered charger. After all, you never know when you’ll need to make a distress call or find the nearest pizza place. While tech can be an awesome tool, you just have to watch Julia Roberts in Leave The World Behind to realize that you don’t want to depend on tech alone.
The Buddy System: Two Heads Are Better Than One
Navigating life’s surprises is easier with a friend. Establish a buddy system for emergencies. This person should be reliable, preferably someone who won’t panic if you call them in the middle of the night because you think there’s a ghost in your house. This is the person you can call when you’re lost, or when you need someone to confirm that yes, indeed, your outfit looks good. Just remember that it is vital for you to trust this person, be it your life partner, a neighbor or a friend. Make sure you can trust them.
Stay Informed: Ignorance Isn’t Always Bliss
Staying informed about the world around you is crucial. This doesn’t mean you need to be glued to the news 24/7, but having a basic understanding of current events can help you prepare for potential situations. For example, knowing about a scheduled city-wide power outage can save you from mistakenly thinking the apocalypse has started. Or thinking about the tsunami that just hit Japan could help you think about how you would react should an earthquake hit your city next. Being informed is super powerful.
The Art Of Distraction: Keep Calm And Carry On
Sometimes, the best way to handle an unexpected situation is to distract yourself. Keep a book, a puzzle, or a game handy. These can be lifesavers during long waits, like when you’re stranded on the side of the road waiting for a towing company. Even in the most unexpected scenarios, a bit of distraction can be your best friend.
Financial Cushion: Your Safety Net
Having a financial safety net is essential. Try to save a little from each paycheck for the ‘just in case’ moments. This fund can be a lifesaver when you’re faced with unexpected expenses, like a sudden car repair or a last-minute flight to your cousin’s destination wedding in Bali.
The Mental Game: Stay Positive, Stay Prepared
Lastly, the right mindset is crucial. Stay positive, but realistic. Preparation is about being ready for the worst while hoping for the best. It’s about having the confidence to face whatever comes your way. And remember, a sense of humor goes a long way. Laugh in the face of adversity and keep a smile ready for whatever life throws at you.
So, there you have it. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to at least thinking of preparedness with some type of framework. The reality is that your life is different from anyone else, and therefore, you need to be prepared for your own surprises. Remember, it’s about being ready, not scared.
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