Lost and Stranded?
If you should ever become lost and stranded in the wilderness, what is the best tool to ensure survival? Is it your pocket knife or fire starter? No, neither of these items are your best tool for survival. It is your mind that is your greatest asset and it can help you to survive in nearly any outdoor survival situation.
Try Not to Panic
Realizing you are lost or stranded in the wilderness can be very scary, frustrating, and confusing. Try not to panic. Breathe deeply and let your mind focus. It is a good idea to sit down for a few moments and relax until you can think clearly. There is no need to waste energy by wandering around aimlessly. Direct your emotions into positive activity such as getting your bearings or choosing the location for your shelter.
Gather your thoughts together.
Take this time to assess the situation. Take a good look at your outdoor survival kit. Check your pockets, backpack, or vehicle for items that may be useful. You have valuable items that can be very helpful around you when you stop and think about it.
Now is the time to make mental notes of the outdoor survival skills that you have learned in the past from reading, watching TV, or school. What was it that you planned to do in survival situations? You have undoubtedly thought this through before in your mind. Now is the time to instill your plan and bring it to action.
Try not to over think the situation.
Do your best to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Prioritize what needs to be done for survival. Make a mental to-do list and get started.
Protecting yourself from the elements is usually the first priority.
Look around and see what options are available for shelter. Use items in the environment to lessen your work. Nature may have already provided the shelter you need. Look for caves or overhangs, for example.
Building a fire is of utmost importance.
Fire can fend off dangerous and annoying animals. You can also use a fire to signal for help while staying warm. Once you have your shelter in place, you may need to start a fire for melting ice, cooking, or heat.
Locating water is another priority that should be high on your survival to-do list.
Everyone needs water to remain hydrated. Dehydration results in weakness and lowered mental capacity. These are two problems you can live without. Do not wait until you are out of water to search for a water source. This is not a good plan of action. You want your mind to be functioning at its highest capacity.
Trying to maintain a positive attitude is absolutely key to your survival in this extreme situation.
Keep your thoughts clear and productive. Assessing the situation and using what is available will allow you to survive. Prioritizing things to do will help to keep your mind focused on your goal of survival. When you can remain
Focused and well rested, your mind will work well to provide you the positive attitude you need to get through the survival situation.
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