As a prepper, there are so many lists of things “to do.” However, have you ever stopped to think that there may be some things that you’re doing that can hurt your prepping efforts? A Prepper NOT-to-do list can help you avoid wasting your time on things that just don’t make sense, can cost you money, and may put your family at risk. Don’t spend time on these tasks if the results just don’t help yield a return in money saved, comfort knowing you can deal with emergencies, and cause you unnecessary concern. Check out this: A Prepper’s Not-To-Do List…

A Prepper’s Not-To-Do List

Have you ever stopped to think about What are Preppers Prepping For? While there are a lot of reasons preppers are prepping, there are some things that they just shouldn’t waste their time on. Of course, you can always check out the CDC’s website for a full list of what they recommend for emergencies and preparedness at least from a health and wellness standpoint.

1. Obsessing “over” the end of the world

While prepping is important, constantly worrying about the end of the world, or at least significant disasters, can lead to anxiety and unhealthy behavior. 13 Things You’ll Regret Not Having When A Disaster Hits Life these days seems to be full of things that can cause anxiety for many of us. Rather than stewing over things, evaluate what can realistically be done to protect your family and property and take some reasonable action.

2. Hoarding unnecessary items

Prepping is about having the right supplies on hand in an emergency. Hoarding unnecessary items or stocking more than you can use will take up space and make finding what you need harder. It’s important to go through your inventory of preparedness-related items and stop hoarding unnecessary items! 50 Of The Best Survival Excuses Having what you need and properly maintaining those items is an important part of your family’s emergency preparedness plan. It should be reviewed and updated at least annually as your circumstances change.

3. Believing conspiracy theories without evidence

Believing in unfounded conspiracy theories can lead preppers to focus on the wrong things and potentially waste time and resources. I mean, I love a good conspiracy, but we must be able to dictate truth from fiction and rumors. Common Misconceptions About Preppers Make sure your research is based on reliable sources, can be fact-checked, and follow common sense input. The old saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” can also apply to the downside of things, “If it sounds too far-fetched or can’t be reliably confirmed, it probably isn’t factual.”

It’s too bad that many of the “news” sources can be biased and put out questionable information. Stay informed as best you can using verifiable sources.

4. Focusing solely on one type of disaster

While preparing for a specific type of disaster is important, it’s also wise to prepare for a variety of scenarios, as emergencies can come in many different forms. I know that there are tons of disasters that can strike at any moment, and it’s important to be prepared for as many of them as possible. 12 Types of Natural Disasters Many disasters and emergencies are more locations focused. You won’t see hurricanes in Utah or snow storms in southern Florida. Again, common sense should dictate your priorities but don’t skimp when you know you are in an area prone to certain events.

5. Neglecting physical fitness and health

Being physically fit and healthy can be crucial in survival situations. Neglecting one’s health can result in problems in the long term. I know many have put on a few extra pounds, but this could really affect us in those stressful situations when we need to be physically fit and as healthy as possible! Fitness for Survival

We all should strive to eat healthy foods, maintain our bodies with some exercise, visit health professionals on a regular basis, and avoid risky environments and activities that could prove harmful.

6. Viewing others as enemies or potential threats

In an emergency situation, cooperation and community can be important for survival. Viewing others who may have different ideas and beliefs as enemies can prevent valuable collaboration. Of course, you should always be cautious, but not everyone is your enemy or out to get you! 12 Reasons Why You Need Family And Friends

7. Spending excessive amounts of money on gear and supplies

While having the right prep gear is important, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Preppers should be careful not to overspend. This can be tough, especially when the list for prepping supplies can get really long. This is a cautionary tip to not overspend and put your family in a tough financial bind. Top 11 Budgeting Tips for Emergency Preparedness

I’ve taken the position to grow my prepping inventory slowly and thoughtfully. I don’t use my credit cards to purchase preparedness items unless it is a dire emergency. I don’t want to be paying high interest for an extended period. Follow my lead and buy “one can at a time.”

8. Becoming isolated from the community and social support

Building connections with others is an important aspect of prepping, as a strong social network can provide support during tough times. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Go ahead and build community and social support, it’s an important part of prepping. How to Make a Community in Your Neighborhood

You can meet some great people in a variety of places and circumstances. We met some awesome people during our Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. Church and civic clubs have also provided valuable friendships over the years.

9. Ignoring the importance of mental and emotional preparedness

Being mentally and emotionally prepared can be just as important as having the right supplies in emergency situations. One of the last things preppers think about is their mental health. Take the time to be prepared in every way. Disasters and emergencies can take a toll on you mentally, make sure you have what it takes to be strong emotionally and mentally! Mental Health Issues After A Disaster

If you find yourself feeling stressed or full of anxiety much of the time, make the effort to get some help. Being involved in some form of therapy doesn’t carry the stigma it used to. It may be a brave step, but you’ll be glad you did, particularly during truly stressful emergency situations.

10. Stockpiling perishable items with short shelf lives

Preppers should be careful to stockpile items that have a longer shelf life in order to avoid having items go bad before they can be used. If you’re on a budget, it’s important to invest in items that have a long shelf life! 125 Preparedness Items You Need To Stock

Canned goods of all kinds are a wise starting point. Canned veggies, fruits, and meats can be used in so many recipes as part of meal planning. I’ve always suggested my readers learn how to garden and then can (preserve) the harvest. You should also try to frequent farmer’s markets and local case lot sales to make the most of your purchase dollars.

11. Underestimating the importance of basic survival skills

While having the right gear is important, basic survival skills like building a fire or finding and filtering water can be invaluable. If you have children, make sure you take the time to introduce them to survival skills that will last a lifetime. Survival Skills to Teach Young Children

Being able to build a shelter, cook outdoors, and use all the items in your first aid kit are some examples of skills that will come in handy. Take the time to research and get involved with worthwhile classes of all kinds. It can be a fun and lifesaving exercise for the whole family if done right.

12. Neglecting to safeguard important documents and information

Preppers should keep important documents like passports, insurance papers, and contact information for loved ones in a secure and easily accessible location. How to Help Your Family Organize Important Documents

I’ve recommended a grab-and-go binder for years, and have a printable you should check out. Make sure family members know where it is and what is included.

13. Disregarding the importance of sanitation and hygiene

In emergency situations, maintaining proper sanitation and hygiene can be important for good health and preventing the spread of disease. Let’s not forget the importance of taking care of your hygiene! 35 Essential Personal Hygiene Products You Need to Stock

Having enough water to properly hydrate, cook, clean, do laundry, and perform personal hygeine.

14. Believing that they can survive alone without the help of others

In most emergency situations, having the help of others can be important for survival. Preppers should be careful not to isolate themselves. How to Prepare for Isolation We all know it could take a while for first responders to arrive. We have to be able to handle things initially, but if we have experienced real devastation to our home, there are injured family members, or if we have little children or the elderly in the home we’ll need help. That’s why we need to have a network of extended family, neighbors, and friends who can step in when needed.

15. Focusing on weapons and tools rather than knowledge and skills

While having the right tools is important, it’s also important to have the knowledge and skills necessary to use them effectively. 22 Basic Prepper Items You Need Learning to build a fire to survive, cook a meal, or stay warm is just one skill. Knowledge is power!

16. Refusing to adapt and adjust to changing situations

In emergency situations, things can change quickly. Preppers should be prepared to adapt to changing conditions in order to survive. Survival Food And Emergency Food Storage Staying calm and able to think on our feet is important. Your kids need to see you in control and decisive when it counts.

17. Assuming that all natural resources will be available indefinitely

Preppers should be careful to plan for scenarios in which natural resources may be limited or unavailable. In the event of an emergency and natural resources run out, you need to have a worst-case scenario plan. 5 Vital Wilderness Survival Skills For Teens

Those cases of bottled water will last only so long. You need longer-term contingency plans as you put your family emergency plans together. Also, it’s important to run through some “what-if” scenarios to make sure you are prepared as things go forward.

18. Relying solely on technology and electronic devices

In emergency situations, technology can fail. Preppers should be careful not to rely solely on electronic devices and have manual options as well. Prepping in 2023: Starting with the Basics Being able to provide and receive communication is critical. Cell phones, walkie-talkies, and other communication devices should be charged up and ready to go. Backup batteries or solar chargers are also important. I have solar powered flashlights that I have on my window sills charging at all times.

19. Neglecting to plan for long-term survival scenarios

Preppers should plan for situations that may last longer than a few days. Long-term survival scenarios require additional planning and supplies. Doomsday preppers are better at long-term prepping than most people. Here are some things to consider for a prepper’s not to-do list:

20. Failing to recognize that survival involves more than just physical needs

While having the right supplies is important, survival also involves mental and emotional fortitude. Preppers should be prepared to take care of both physical and emotional needs in emergency situations. The 5 Basic Things You Need to Survive

Things you should spend more time preparing:

Final Word

A prepper’s not-to-do list isn’t complicated. If you are short on time and need to focus on important items, then this list is for you. Sometimes it’s hard to know exactly what to spend your time on, but hopefully, this list helps you. I hope this not to do list helps you just as much as any other list out there. May God Bless this World, Linda

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