DON'T SWEAT IT!

Eric Atwell, BVABC

So you're a new survivalist and you've been thinking long and hard about taking a solo camping trip for the weekend but just can't shake the noobie jitters, right? You have gotten so worked up and nervous about it that you started telling your friend's about your idea, seeking their supportive comments to boost your caveman ego before you head out on your solo adventure into the great unknown. So now your senses are in overdrive and the OCD dark side has taken over.

Checking over every piece of gear that you own, twice. Hoping that you haven't forgotten to pack something that may prove to be very important when you arrive at your destination. After making peace with your survival gear and the vehicle is finally loaded. You head off to bed. Trying with all your might to get some sleep but in the back of your mind you still have that gut feeling that you're forgetting something.

The truth of the matter is simple. Survival is'nt this complicated. Since the dawn of time. Mankind has been enduring the chaotic challenges of mother nature in one form or another and still alive on planet earth to brag about his triumph. It's not magic it's evolution. The human DNA is hardwired for survival. This is the reason why we continue to venture forward in our existence.

So quit trying to remember every single survival episode on T.V that you have committed to memory. Stop over thinking every little detail of the adventure that stands before you an just get out there and have fun! Surviving in the wild is a right of passage for all of mankind. It should feel natural and not overbearing to the human soul. So take a nice deep breath and relax. Now, .... enjoy!