The Reality of Group Survival

Let us face the truth of the matter… Most survivalist focus on preparation for surviving a crisis alone; but what happens when you find yourself in a group?

In the past most dramatized media showed their viewers; the day and life of a survivalist and them attempting to teach us how to survive a plethora of scenarios. (Let us not even consider the “game show” Survivor.) They are alone in the wilderness and show us “what to do if this were to happen to you”.

Very few shows (until recently) focused on group survival and what to do when that happens to you. If you have watched any of these shows; what is the common factor in the show? Today’s viewers are drawn to conflict and drama. They can’t get enough of it and are fed what they want. TV networks know this and purposely cast and script the right combination to get the most drama out of the show. More drama, more conflict; means more ratings and more money.

In reality, they have it completely right and it is more likely in today's society. We cannot be so naive to think that in a crisis things will go smoother with more people involved. Time and history have proven that when a group is facing a crisis the stress of different ideas, opinions, expertise, and control can create friction within a group.

Not everyone is an expert survivalist and finding yourself in a group survival situation with you all having some sort of survival experience will never happen. Even if everyone had some type of training or skill set; conflict is bound to happen. Most likely you are the expert and the rest will rely on you to guide them, but human nature takes over and others will resist because they are not in control.

The truth of the matter is that we live in a lazy society. We all want to be in control, but don’t want to do the work that is required to be in control. Being a leader takes a lot of work, but most don’t want to commit and take on the responsibility of leadership. However, in today's society, people dislike being labeled a follower and instead of following for the better of the group; resist and create division.

There are two types of people in this world. There are leaders and there are followers. What type of person are you? You should attempt to figure that out before a crisis happens. It is better to know what suits you for the better and owning it. Your survival depends on embracing your place in a group.

Another part of society that will affect the survival groups cohesion are those that feel entitled to everything without an effort of their own. They have made it through life dependant upon others to do it for them and if others don't do it for them then; they complain until it gets done. In order for a group to survive a crisis; it will take the entire group to do it. There is no place for entitlement mentalities and everyone must have a part in the group's survivability.

Whether you are in a survival situation alone or in a group; times are going to be tough. You may have skills and experience to increase your chances of survivability or you may not. Just remember, if you find yourself in a group know your place and be whatever is needed to survive as a group. Recognize and be open to leading the group to success or follow those leading by contributing to surviving.

Don’t fall into the typical scenario depicted by TV media and prepare yourself for the greater good. After all, it is everyone's goal in a crisis to survive it. Group or not; be prepared and increase your chances of survivability.