The Survival Persona

What is it and Why is it Important?

A persona is “the aspect of someone’s character that is presented to or perceived by others”. It is the part of yourself you represent to the world. Everyone has their own persona that they show to others, however many of them are not genuine. 

Some people legitimately believe that when the stuff does hit the fan, they are going to transform into some super-human renegade who is a master marksman with ninja-like skills. Admit it, we’ve all seen these types of people. And what is also disturbing is that some of these same people have persuaded others to trust that they will! This can be a dangerous mistake and one that could ultimately costs the lives of those around them if they are unprepared.

The grim reality is that some of those people will not be as brave, brazen, or prepared as they boast to be. The average person who has not been through traumatic situations or seen military action, has no experience in combat or the taking of another human life. To be clear, that in itself is not a negative thing by any means. The point is in a desperate and dangerous world after a major shtf situation, much more is needed than a delusional persona.

So What Should One Do?

That’s an easy question to answer: learn, learn, learn! Knowledge is the number one prep, one can acquire. This knowledge not only includes a multitude of survival skills, but communication and social skills as well. Learning to communicate will help to lead and influence others. Notice it says lead, not control. In a shtf situation the stress levels will be at an all time high, and emotions will be even higher. A family will need a leader, a voice of reason and direction. Good social skills are also important to learn to interact with others comfortably and effectively. These will help to teach a person how to react nonviolently in conflict, and how to use and read nonverbal methods of communication. While it is true that instances of conflict will happen, it is also important to know when it is best to try diffusing a situation.

“When force is necessary, it must be applied boldly, decisively, and completely. But one must know the limitations of force; one must know when to blend force with a maneuver, the blow with an agreement.” Leon Trotsky

5 Tips of Good Communication:

1. The Ability to Actively Listen

2. Adapting to Differing Opinions (Open-mindedness)

3. Taking Responsibility For Your Own Message

4. Clearly & Concisely Conversing With Others

5. Willing to Collaborate and Ask For Clarification if Needed

5 Ways to Have Better Social Skills:

1. Maintain Eye Contact

2. Show Confidence (Body Language - Strong Posture)

3. Show Interest (Ask Questions)

4. Concentrate on the Task or Conversation

5. Echo (Summarize & Repeat if Needing Clarification to Address Concerns)

How Can You Use Both Sets of These Tips in a Shtf Situation?

Building Alliances

Bartering With Others

Group Leadership

Defense & Offense Scenario's

Problem Solving

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Author Information:

 Sharon Pannell is a self proclaimed "Prepsteader", both prepper and homesteader. She authors the blog The Trailer Park Homesteader where she teaches others about the importance of disaster preparedness and self-sufficiency. Sharon believes everyday the stuff can hit the fan, it is not one big epic event necessarily and it only takes one set back to create a hardship; so big or small prepare for it all ! Along with her blog, Sharon can also be found managing her other social media sites including her Facebook Page The Trailer Park Homesteader, TTPH Pinterest Page, and TTPH Twitter Page.