Survival instincts or self defense is the unifying characteristic of every life form on earth. This fundamental directive is a part of the genetic code of each and every organism. This is true even of the simplest living organisms like bacteria. Survival is the corner stone of evolution. And only the fittest survives. Our species could evolve because our ancestors were able to develop the skills necessary to ensure their survival. Despite all the progress we have made as a species, as individuals we are incapable of surviving major natural and man made disasters.
2. The urge to survive is the hallmark of life, all living organisms aim for self preservation. It is
coded into each and every organism. Event the simplest of single celled organisms have survival
mechanisms. Survival drives evolution, and only those that are fit, survive. We could evolve only
because our primate ancestors could device efficient survival strategies that ensured their survival.
As a species we are well equipped to ensure the survival of the species but as individuals, we are
very ill prepared to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
Injured, helpless and alone - that is the state most victims of natural disasters find themselves in
when nature lets loose its fury. Natural disasters are just one of the many threats we face, there
is also the constant threat of terrorist attacks, biological warfare and what not. Ask yourself, are
you truly capable of protecting yourself and your family when a crisis shows its terrifying face.
Annually there are thousands of deaths that are a direct result of man made and natural disasters.
Had they been prepared, many of these people could have saved themselves. Complete reliance
on the government during emergency situations is plain suicide. Remember, in the face of crisis,
you yourself are the only help that is available to you. Hence, the need for preparing to survive
anything cannot be stressed enough.
The military prepares its men to survive anything in the field. Even after years of training, survival
is not guaranteed. It is very difficult for the average American to devote the time and resources
required for military like survival training. But, what you can do is to follow the advice given by
survival experts like Bear Grylls, Damian Campbell and the like. Because of a lack of a central
reference, it is difficult to find authentic survival information. Damian Campbell has created a
booklet on how to survive anything. TV survival shows like the ones hosted by Bear Grylls are also
a good resource for learning survival techniques and strategies.
Your attitude is your best survival asset. Good preparation, as Damian Campbell says, is essential
for survival. To survive you have to be smart and prepared. Even boat loads of money won’t help
you survive anything if you are not prepared. Everything you might need is probably available at
your local supermarket. Good preparation means complete preparation. This is essential because
you might never know when an emergency will crop up. In the least, strong shelters, food and
water supply, and some self defense weapons are the basic requirements.
Ultimately, survival boils down to your willingness to survive. Preparation is key. You can survive
anything if you have the right mental attitude and proper preparation.
