My Approach to Prepping and Readiness

A Mindset, Not Just a Stockpile

In a world that feels increasingly unpredictable—whether it's natural disasters, economic instability, or global unrest—I've found comfort and confidence in cultivating a lifestyle of preparedness. But for me, prepping isn't about fear. It's about wisdom and understanding, empowerment, responsibility, and resilience.

It Starts with Awareness

Readiness begins with wisdom to understand the risks specific to my environment. Living in Tennessee, I consider threats like tornadoes, power outages, supply chain disruptions and earthquakes from the New Madrid fault. I stay informed, not paranoid—monitoring local news, weather alerts, political events and global trends that might ripple into my daily life.

Mindset Over Materials

Too often, prepping is reduced to gear and gadgets. While tools matter, I prioritize mindset. I ask myself: “Can I adapt? Can I stay calm under pressure? Do I know how to problem-solve when plans fall apart?’ Mental readiness is the foundation of physical preparedness. “Don’t Panic!”

Smart Stockpiling

Most of us can’t go out and purchase a year’s worth of food to put back for emergencies. I started small… Maintain a rotating supply of essentials: food, water, backup power, medical supplies and 3 months of personal medication. Over the years my family and I have put back enough for several months. But I avoid hoarding.

My goal is sustainability, not scarcity. I focus on shelf-stable foods I actually eat. A year’s supply of freeze-dried foods you’ll never eat doesn’t help you. However, having emergency food, water purification methods, first-aid and medication kits tailored to my household’s needs will mean all the difference in maintaining a somewhat normal standard of living during an emergency.

Skills Over Stuff

Gear can fail. Skills endure. I’ve invested time in learning basic first aid, fire-starting, outdoor cooking, water purification, land navigation, home repair, and even gardening. I practice these regularly—not just for emergencies, but because they enrich my life. Prepping isn't just for the worst days; it's for better everyday living. Knowing how to do these things also helps me have the mental confidence to stay calm and make sound decisions under pressure. Some books we've read to help your prepping learning are: The Prepper’s Survival Bible by Morgan J. Kepler (Author), NO GRID Survival Projects by Claude Davis, Michael Major, Amber Robinson, and James Walton (Authors), Forgotten Home Apothecary, by Dr. Nicole Apelian (Author), The Survival Medicine Handbook: The Essential Guide for When Help is NOT on the Way, by Joseph Alton MD (Author), Amy Alton APRN (Author). Also, check out the book that got me started in survival and prepping from the US Army, The Official U.S. Army Survival Manual Updated by U.S. Department of the Army (Author), Peter T. Underwood (Author). There are so many more that I haven't mentioned but, this will get you going in the right direction.

Community Matters

Readiness isn’t isolation. It's not "Going it Alone". Real prepping involves Community... Each of us brings different skills and strengths to the table. I believe in building networks—neighbors who check in, friends who share resources, and local groups that exchange knowledge and Trust. In a crisis, community is a force multiplier. I prep not just for myself, but to be a resource for others.

Hurricane Helene’s destruction in East Tennessee and North Carolina is a perfect example of how communities can and will come together during an emergency. The government isn’t coming to save you. Being prepared to be without basic services for a minimum of 3 - 14 days is a great place to start or goal to have when making your personal family readiness plan. Then you can build from there and over time be a resource for others.

Constant Evolution

My approach is never static. I’m willing and open to learning something new every day. I seek out new skills, and techniques. In addition, I review my plans quarterly, update supplies, and reflect on lessons learned. Readiness is a living process, shaped by experience and changing circumstances.

Prepping, to me, is a quiet form of optimism. It says: “I believe in my ability to face the unknown. I trust myself to adapt. I care enough to prepare and help others. Whether you're just starting or deep in the journey, I hope my approach inspires you to see readiness not as a burden—but as a goal that is attainable for everyone.

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