You may be opening a can of worms here.
1. Why did you start prepping?
A: It was something I was raised with. My father was an officer during the border war and although he never spoke about it (still doesn't, except for the terrible food) that type of military thinking was in our up bringing. I grew up with a weapon in my hand, watching my father stock pile the garage. It wasn't a talking point, I just thought all families lived that way. As I grew up I noticed the state of the world and started to think for myself that I don't want to be caught with my pants down if SHTF. 2008 I was hit pretty hard financially and that's when I realised I hadn't done nearly enough and started to up my game.
2. What was the first thing/ Step taken?
A: As I mentioned I was taught from a very young age so it's hard to say what my first step was (it was possibly my first actual steps :-p ) I also used to spend the weekends with the Scouts so picked up many skills there as a start but if I think of my first conscious decision it was probably studying. I spent HOURS per week in the library (this was pre-internet) learning about herbs, Bush survival, civilian life during the world wars, primitive weaponry etc to get an understanding of how people survived without everything that we take for granted.
3. Is there a plan/ checklist?
A: Definitely. My entire life it's built around prepping, from my location to my jobs to the people I associate myself with. Each one has it's place in my plan. Checklists are essential because you will go nuts without them.
Daily tasks, skills you want to learn, pantry supplies, BoB contents etc etc.
Around the forum you will find countless lists that members have posted to give you an idea.
4. Survival is one thing after "doomsday" but what do you do during a time where mayhem will be the flavor of the day? Do you run, stay, hide, fight?
A: I believe this is a highly debated topic. My personal opinion is that it is best to get somewhere secluded BEFORE SHTF, if possible. Otherwise prepare to lock down for at least 3 weeks (it's widely considered that this is the time where things are the most chaotic) but be ready to flee if you can't defend. Stay under the radar and only confront if left with no option.
6. Go it alone with just your family or do you join groups of other people?
A: Increase your numbers. Preferably have a team set up that you know you can trust so that when the time comes you can stand together. Not only are you physically stronger in larger numbers but everybody that you meet knows something that you don't so it expands your skill set.
At the end of the day you need to remember your essentials. Food, water, shelter, heat, security. Or alternatively; Beans, bandaids and bullets. How you get there depends on what suits you and your environment best.
