The price of prepping can not only drain you financially but emotionally. Right now the media spotlight is on shows such as "Doomsday Preppers" and "Living for the Apocalypse". We see these very prepared individuals with thousands of dollars in food stores, off the grid bug out locations, and weapons that could outfit a small army. I am in awe of these individuals and hearing their story and how they have prepped is amazing but.........sometimes I do feel like I am behind and I almost get in a full fledge panic that I'm not near ready like they are. I have seen people that are new to prepping basically throw up their hands and say "I'm so far behind what's the since of even trying" and they quit so if your feeling this way........
Take a deep breath and take a step back.
Remember the people you see on these shows have been prepping for years. Every journey starts with that first step and every step gets you that much closer. I realize with the state of the economy and trying to prep is a challenge but here are some practical ways to prep on a budget and ease that panic mode.
Coupons - I am an avid couponer and with a bit of effort you can save money and prep. For instance I had a coupon buy 1 deodorant and get the second free and the same for shampoo. Right there I was able to save and prep!
Farm Markets - Farm markets are a great place to save money and prep. Many times when you approach these farmers you can buy in bulk at a great price and can these items. For a fraction of what you would spend at the store and some effort you can do alot of prepping this way.
Make Lists - I am a compulsive list maker. I have lists for everything! The reason I make this lists is because it keeps me focused and working toward my goals. Not to mention everytime you check off something on your list you achieve that sense of accomplishment and a piece of mind that you are getting that much closer to your goal.
Network - Sometimes as preppers we get so caught up in the op sec that we isolate ourselves which can breed more anxiety. Now I'm not saying tell any and everyone about your location, stores, etc. I am saying there are plenty of survivalist boards where you can go and talk to people about canning, or what you need in a bug out bag. You can get answers to your questions from like minded people and ease that feeling of anxiety and who knows you may make a few friends along the way. A couple of great boards are http://www.survivalistboards.com/ and http://www.survivalblog.com/. There are also some great podcasts such as www.blogtalkradio.com/theprepperpodcast and www.thesurvivalpodcast.com/
Set Small Achievable Goals - Set small achievable goals for your prepping. Start out by storing 3 days of food, then, 7, then 14 etc. You will be amazed at how this will add up before you know it and remember each step gets your closer.
Learn New Skill Sets - Knowledge is power and when SHTF it's also priceless. Take a first aid course, many times these are sponsored and cost little to nothing. You Tube is amazing for gaining knowledge, this past week I just typed in "Homemade Smoker" and I got all sorts of great ideas! Many times a new skill set will cost you little or no money but could make that HUGE difference later on.
It is possible to prep on a budget without the drain on your bank account or your sanity.
Be prepared, not sorry.
3 comments:
I especially love BOGO (buy one get one free) coupons for stuff I would buy anyway.
Yes when my boys where at home I had to really stretch my grocery dollars so now I have just coverted my coupon clipping to do my prepping.
Speaking about stretching your dollars insofar as food, I have a nice sized pile of recipes that are really very good that utilize wild edibles. Free delicious foods can be gathered from almost any field. Dandelions, chicory, cattails... they all provide tasty nutritious alternatives that most people don't think of.
One of my favorites:
Sauteed Chicory
Ingredients
(serves four people
1kg fresh chicory (or spinach)
1 clove garlic, chopped;
2tbsp plump raisins;
2tbsp pine nuts;
small bit of butter or a little olive oil.
Preparation:
Rinse the chicory well and trim stems. Boil in lightly salted water for five to ten minutes until tender. (If using spinach, rinse and trim then simmer in a pan with no additional water.
The spinach will release more than enough liquid as you heat it and will need cooking for no more than five minutes.) Drain chicory and squeeze dry. In a frying pan heat the butter or olive oil and add the chopped garlic.
Cook for a couple of minutes then add the chicory. Season with salt and pepper then add the raisins and the pine nuts. Toss well and serve hot.
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