Survival is not all about having the best gear and the most extensive training.
There is one key element that is absolutely necessary that sometimes, even a person highly trained in survival may be lacking and will ultimately fail. That tool must be ingrained into the very being of a person hoping to survive. What is that 
tool you ask? The will to live. It is so powerful, that folks who may not be survival experts can survive a situation that would normally result in a bad outcome.
Take for example Tom Hanks in the film, Castaway. He was an executive with very little training in surviving, but he did it. Why? Was he just lucky? Well, in a way yes, but most importantly, it was his desire to return to his life, his job, and his woman that kept him going. The movie also gives a little insight to the psychological aspect of a survival situation and how he overcame it. It is crucial to remember, that a dire situation will have a psychological effect on a person. You must be prepared to cope. The otherwise novice executive managed to live through sheer determination and a little luck.
However, a strong desire to live is not always going to be enough to carry a person through a disaster. Of course you have heard the miracle stories of a person surviving one devastating situation or another, but those are rare cases. Don’t just assume because you have a strong will to survive that you will make it through.
With that said, let’s talk about what you can do to increase your odds of living though an event. There are three things you can do today, to increase your odds.
- Practice and prepare to use the skills you are learning.
- Admit your lack of survival knowledge. Seek out the help you need from a professional.
- Start setting short and long-term goals in regard to your survival training.
Another key to getting through a difficult situation is learning the art of visualization. It is a very real skill and just like learning to start a fire, you must practice. If you are cold and scared, it will help you to visualize someplace safe and warm. Your mind is one of the biggest strengths you have. Learn how to use it to help you get through a survival situation.
If you are in a dire situation, give yourself something or someone to go on for. That may be your family, your job or even orders from your superior. Anything that will help bolster your strength and desire to keep going is helpful.
While you are out practicing your skills like securing shelter or hunting for food, remember to work on your mind too. Someday, it just may save your life.
Submitted by:
Craig Caudill practices what he preaches. You can see more of his blog posts here. When he is not writing for Dan’s Depot, you may find him teaching survival skills at his Nature Reliance School.