Let's talk about team mindset in a survival situation an how it pertains to us.
I'm amazed at how often I see folks who are convinced that they can survive any situation on their lonesome. While in many cases, this could be the case. I have been on many search and rescue missions in which a lone hiker or hunter became lost only to be found days later no worse for the wear. With certain critical skill sets, a lone survivor could do very well.
But, we normally don't think in these terms, do we?
In general, the SHTF scenarios we plan for consist of bugging in or bugging out, whatever your particular plan may be. We plan for natural disasters, civil disorders, and the like. Most any situation you find yourself in, there are going to be thousands of folks going through the same situation you are, just trying to survive. Even if you live in a very rural area like me, chances are there is a major population center somewhere close to you, or at the very least a decent population of folks scattered throughout the countryside.
Here's where I make my point. A single person by and large has very little chance of going it alone and coming out unscathed. Even if said person were to have the perfect survival retreat and all the supplies in the world, he or she is simply playing the odds.
In a psychological manner, being by oneself in a bad situation often leaves victims depressed, their mindset degrading a little each day. In severe instances, the perceived hopelessness can drive an individual to suicidal tendencies, rendering the person a detriment to their chances of survival.
As a practical standpoint, going at it alone increases the wear and tear on the body. Workloads that would be better suited to a family or small group now fall upon a single person to accomplish. Gathering food, growing food, finding water, defending the retreat will all take a toll on the physical stamina of the survivor .
In the event the survivor makes himself mobile, hoping to gather resources along the way, or even move to a new location, the risk becomes greater. Chances are that myriads of people have had this same idea. Moving across country or even in urban terrain solo presents an tremendous amount of risk. Sooner or later you will run into another human being. Soon after that, another. And another. There is simply no way to completely avoid all human contact. With each and every person you run into along the way, you play the cards of whether or not you survive the encounter. With billions of people in the world, how long do you figure you can play the odds?
ON THE OTHER HAND.......
Teams or groups of survivors greatly increase your chances of survival.
Psychologically, the camaraderie of people you can trust serves to lift morale. No longer are you playing that single game of solitaire with the same old worn out deck of cards, but now perhaps a game of poker, Battleship, or the like. You have people to talk to, to lean on, and gain support from.
Teams provide a more even distribution of workload, making hunting/ gathering/ growing food more feasible. Common tasks around the retreat can be divided amongst members, providing time for much needed rest and recreation.
Defensively, teams make sense. Period. Why do you think every military in the world fights as a unit? Manpower exponentially increases ones survival chances, on and off the battlefield. Same applies to us. One gun is better than none. Two is better. Four is better still. Get the idea?
While going all Lone Wolf McQuade may sound like fun, it is by no means practical. Keep that in mind the next time your buddy tells you that his plan is to load up his truck and head to the woods. He's an idiot.
Before he leaves, get his location. Me and my team may need some extra supplies.
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