"We started preparing after our area was hit by a bad winter storm."
"Since the stock market tanked, I've invested more heavily in precious metals."
"I've started carrying a bigger handgun since a shooting happened nearby."
I hear these kinds of statements all the time, from good people who needed a wake up call to get them moving in the right direction.
There's certainly something to be said for making adjustments, but at the same time, the problem with these kinds of statements is clear. They're making adjustments after the fact - after disaster has struck.
We are usually fortunate enough to make it through life's problems relatively unscathed, giving us the luxury of after-the-fact analysis. But that's not the point here, really.
We're preparing for something that won't leave us unscathed. Something major and life-altering. Something where there's no second chance and no do-over.
Don't get me wrong--preparedness is a process. You can't wave a magic wand and instantly know everything and have everything that you could ever need to survive any conceivable scenario. We're all working on it.
But DON'T wait around for a disaster to give you a kick in the butt and get you motivated. Don't be lazy about it. Be honest with yourself. Put your skills and your preps to the test before bad times roll around--make the adjustments now, when you can.
I'm preaching to the choir, here, I know. You guys and gals are awake, aware, working and refining. Stay frosty and try to get your friends and family to wake up, too.
