One problem I have (and have seen in others) is a tendency to over-think matters and encounter analysis paralysis.  This causes delays in taking action and not beginning an important process (in this case, preparation).  Col. John Boyd (USAF) developed and refined the OODA Loop which describes decision-making in fighter combat but can also be applied to other matters.  The essential principle is to make a decision and act quickly for in the words of Gen. George Patton:

A good plan violently executed now is better than a perfect plan executed next week.

This applies to preparation in one aspect, thinking about the equipment you need to adequately prepare for the unknown.  Sometimes we can get bogged-down in the details of deciding what we need and where we put it rather than on the importance of starting something, anything, now and refining it over time.  I am guilty of this myself, but am working towards addressing it as I refine my own preparations.

The principle I want to address now is repurposing and multiuse.  Instead of wondering what you need to get in the future, ask yourself what you have on-hand right now that can help you get better prepared.  Over time, you can add or adjust your equipment and kit but we all need to start somewhere.  Making incremental progress over time is what is more important than your starting point.

If you go camping or backpacking, you probably have many items that can come be used in your preparations.  Check your garage, if you have tools you are already prepared for household emergencies.  Have you taken a Red Cross class lately?  If so, you are armed with information that can be used in the future.  Go into your kitchen and see what is in your cupboards and/or pantry.  Got canned, freeze-dried, or dry foods you can prepare?  How about a gas grill or camp stove?  Have extra flashlights and batteries?  Take a look around, you may already be on your way towards preparation.

The good news is you may not have to purchase a lot of new items, they may already be in your home!  Gas grills can be used to prepare steaks but they can also be used to boil water if necessary.  Camping gear can be used as temporary shelter in case your domicile has to be abandoned.  Hand sanitizer not only cleans your hands, it can serve as a fire starter.  The bat that you use in your recreational softball league and also serve as a club in a pinch.  There are countless items that can serve in multiple roles, take some time and do an inventory of what you have right now.

Whatever you do, start the process now and keep at it.  Think of preparation as an exercise program that will yield results over time.  Keep at it and you will realize your goal, which is to become more prepared and resilient during emergencies.  This in turn will benefit you, your family, your neighbors, the community you live in, and the country as a while.

Get started!