Realization of Prepping?

[sickboymoto]

I am new to the site, already had a new member thread, and I have really dug in deep to the "preppers" section. I am only 22 years old. For some reason, since my teenage years I have always had the thought in the back of my mind "what if SHTF"? But I never realized how many other people have the same thoughts and are actually doing something about it. Rationalizing it, discussing the plan and actions for it, and hardcore prepping for it. I have been wanting the opportunity to start prep for SHTF, but have yet had the chance to do so other than in small ways. I have always thought about what if this/that and packed and prepped according to the situation. I always try to be ready for anything. I am in the Army Reserve. So every time I can get ahold of extra MRE's I do, and keep them stored in my house. The same goes for any military equipment I can get my hands on. But due to not having my own house (roommates/rental), I have not been able to accomplish much except 1week BO Bag and some other good supplies. And being deployed, I have worried about SHTF while I am gone. I really want to get my prepping going when I return.
But I am curious to when did the realization of a need to prep occur? It happened to me so young and I do not know what started it or why.

Oh and started reading "One Second After" the day before yesterday. Almost done. Wow. Thanks to whoever suggested it!

[lead_magnet]

Welcome aboard.

I grew into it slowly in my late teens to mid 20s. Having kids at age 25 was the big boost that threw thigns into full gear from the prepping side. Always been a gun nut. If it makes you feel any better, supplies and equipment are great things to acquire, and you should certainly continue to do so. But the most important thing to have is the correct mindset, and it sounds like you're already there. In a real SHTF senario, is it possible you won't be able to get access to, or take your BOB or other supplies with you.

[Wulf202]

my grand parents were depression era. dad was an eagle scout. uncle a farmer. friends were mormon. I thought it was normal ...

[StagLefty]

^ Living out in the country as a youngster it was normal to "prep". So I guess it's kind of ingrained with me. With the financial state of the country it makes even more sense to prep.

[Great-Kazoo]

my grand parents were depression era. dad was an eagle scout. uncle a farmer. friends were mormon. I thought it was normal ...

Somewhat similar. Old Union IBEW (during the depression and forever) and NYPD, grandparents. Always saved this or that. One of my late grandmothers would make balls of soap from the small pieces she save, canned jellies from O'l misses Flynn.They never threw anything out, except trash of course. Flash forward cub & boy scouts (always prepared) With my ol man being NYPD too, you always had one eye open for the unexpected AND a plan IF something happened. Guess prepping for something or other has always been on the back burner.
Now where i put my keys