When it comes to preparing for emergencies, having a well-stocked supply of food can make all the difference. Whether you're facing a natural disaster, power outage, or any other unexpected situation, the right foods can provide comfort, energy, and sustenance when you need it most.

However, not all foods are created equal when it comes to emergency preparedness. Some items may seem convenient or tasty but can actually be poor choices that compromise your safety, nutrition, or storage needs.

In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 worst foods to keep for emergencies, shedding light on common mistakes and misconceptions.

From foods that spoil quickly to those that lack essential nutrients or are difficult to prepare without electricity, we’ll help you identify which items to avoid. Understanding these pitfalls can save you time, money, and headaches when you’re trying to stay safe and nourished during a crisis.

By being mindful of what you store, you ensure your emergency food supply truly supports your needs. We’ll also offer tips on what to look for in emergency foods and suggest smarter alternatives to keep you and your family healthy and comfortable when disaster strikes.

Ready to revamp your emergency pantry? Let’s dive into the foods you should definitely leave off your list.

1. Fresh Produce

While fresh fruits and vegetables are vital for a healthy diet under normal circumstances, they are among the worst choices for emergency storage.

Fresh produce spoils quickly without refrigeration and can lead to food waste during emergencies. Unless you have a way to preserve them, like canning, freezing, or dehydration, they simply won’t last. Instead, focus on storing canned or freeze-dried fruits and vegetables that have a long shelf life.

2. Bread and Baked Goods

Bread, pastries, and other baked goods tend to go stale or moldy very quickly, especially without proper storage conditions. Many emergency situations involve limited access to fresh supplies and refrigeration, making these items prone to spoilage.

Additionally, most baked goods are low in nutritional value and tend to contain preservatives and sugars that are not ideal for sustaining energy in emergencies.

3. Dairy Products (Unprocessed)

Milk, yogurt, cheese, and other fresh dairy products are not suitable for extended storage unless specially processed, such as powdered milk or shelf-stable UHT products.

Fresh dairy requires constant refrigeration and can spoil rapidly, potentially causing foodborne illness if consumed after going bad.

4. Raw Meat and Seafood

Raw animal products need cold storage and careful handling to avoid dangerous bacterial growth. Without refrigeration or freezing, raw meats and seafood will quickly become unsafe to eat.

Instead, emergency stocks should include canned, freeze-dried, or vacuum-sealed cured meats that can last longer without refrigeration.

5. Sugary Snacks and Candy

Sugary snacks and candies might provide a quick energy boost, but they lack the balanced nutrition required during emergencies. These foods can also lead to energy crashes and do not provide lasting satiety.

Over-reliance on sweets can be detrimental to maintaining health in extended survival situations.

6. Fresh Eggs

Fresh eggs have a short shelf life and are highly perishable without refrigeration. While eggs are a great source of protein, they are among the worst items to store fresh in an emergency pantry. 

Alternatives like powdered eggs or freeze-dried eggs can provide nutritional benefits without the spoilage risk.

7. Pasta and Rice (Uncooked)

While pasta and rice are common staples, storing them raw in environments with insects or moisture can lead to infestation or spoilage.

Additionally, cooking pasta and rice requires a heat source and water, resources that may be limited during emergencies. Consider storing instant rice or pre-cooked dehydrated meals that only need rehydration.

 

8. Foods in Glass Jars

Glass jars are fragile and can break easily during emergencies or transport. They also tend to be bulky and heavy, making storage and handling difficult.

Opt for foods packaged in durable, lightweight containers like cans or vacuum-sealed pouches for your emergency stockpile.

9. Perishable Condiments and Sauces

Items like mayonnaise, salad dressings, and fresh sauces require refrigeration and can spoil quickly. They also add little nutritional value and can risk food safety issues.

Instead, stock up on shelf-stable condiments such as ketchup packets, soy sauce, or dried herbs and spices.

10. Foods with High Water Content

Foods that contain a lot of water, such as soups or stews with fresh ingredients, are prone to spoilage without refrigeration.

Additionally, they are heavy to store and transport. Freeze-dried or dehydrated soup mixes are better because they are lightweight, last longer, and only require adding water when needed.

Building a Better Emergency Food Supply

To make your emergency food supply truly effective, focus on long-lasting, nutrient-rich, and easily prepared foods.

Freeze-dried meals, canned goods, dried legumes, nuts, and powdered dairy products are excellent choices. Look for items with a long shelf life, low refrigeration needs, and minimal preparation requirements.

Remember to rotate your stock regularly and store food in cool, dry places to maximize their shelf life. Also, consider your family’s dietary needs and preferences to ensure everyone stays healthy and comfortable during an emergency.

By avoiding the worst foods to keep and choosing smarter alternatives, you’ll be better prepared to face whatever challenges come your way and the confidence that your emergency pantry will sustain you when it matters most.

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com

 

The wind whispers secrets through the trees. The ground beneath your feet is alive with sound — crackling leaves, shifting soil, distant calls. You move slowly. Nothing snaps. Nothing betrays you. You are invisible.

Welcome to the art of surviving undetected.  For preppers and survivalists, vanishing into the wilderness isn’t just a skill, it’s a lifeline.

Survival starts here. Mind over matter. You must shed the hustle of civilization. The rustle of gadgets, the hum of engines, all fade. Your senses sharpen.  Feel the pulse of the forest. Listen to the silence between sounds. Anticipate danger before it strikes. To blend in, you must become part of the landscape, not just physically, but mentally. The forest is not your enemy. It’s your shield.

When venturing into the wild, staying untraceable is crucial for safety and survival. Whether you're an avid hiker, a wilderness enthusiast, or a survivalist, mastering the art of staying untraceable can be a game-changer. Here are some expert tips on how to stay untraceable in the wild.

One of the key strategies to staying untraceable in the wild is to blend in with your surroundings. Choose clothing and gear that match the natural colors and patterns of the environment you are in. Avoid bright colors that can easily catch the eye of others.

Big heavy backpacks are a liability. Choose stealth over luxury and be sure to have a backpack that will blend into your surrounding wildlife as well. A heavy duty waterproof tarp, a quality multi-tool knife, water purification tools, a way to make fire and camo that breaks your outline. Your clothing should be earth tones only. Greens, browns, and muted grays. Avoid noise-makers. Opt for soft-soled boots. Every step counts. Rubber soles crush twigs, leather heels crackle.

Reduce your impact on the environment to avoid leaving traces of your presence. Practice Leave No Trace principles by minimizing noise, avoiding unnecessary movements, and refraining from altering the natural landscape. The less evidence you leave behind, the harder it is to track you.

Step lightly. Step slow. Feet near ground, weight balanced. Avoid dry leaves and brittle branches. Use existing paths but diversify. A single trail can lead pursuers straight to you.

Pause. Breathe. Watch for signs of other humans footprints, broken branches, smoke from a campfire. If you find them, change course immediately. At night, the forest is your cloak. Move only when necessary. Shadows hide many sins.

When moving through the wilderness, stay low to the ground to avoid being seen against the skyline. Move slowly and quietly to minimize noise that could give away your position. Be mindful of your surroundings and listen for any signs of approaching threats.

Utilize natural cover such as dense vegetation, rock formations, or fallen trees to conceal your presence. Avoid open areas where you are easily visible. By staying hidden in the natural environment, you increase your chances of remaining undetected.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Pay attention to any signs of human activity or potential threats. Stay alert and trust your instincts. By staying vigilant and observant, you can proactively avoid dangerous situations and stay untraceable.

If you suspect that someone is tracking you, consider leaving false trails to throw them off your scent. Double back on your path, create decoys, or use diversion tactics to confuse potential pursuers. By employing deceptive strategies, you can effectively evade detection.

Pitch your shelter where it blends. Next to a fallen tree, under dense canopy, near natural formations. Bright tarps and reflective materials scream “here I am!” Use natural materials to cover your setup. Keep your fire minimal. Smoke is a beacon. Use smokeless techniques or small smoldering embers. Cook cold meals if you can. Starve the enemy’s senses.

Water sources attract both wildlife and people. Collect rainwater or dew when possible. When approaching streams, do so downstream to mask noise. Drink in small, silent sips. Avoid sudden movements. Spilling water is a dead giveaway.

Trap and fish with care. Camouflage your snares. Avoid leaving tools or bait visible. Gather edible plants, berries, and roots, but know your flora. One misstep and you’re done.

Your scent carries. Most animals and people can smell you from afar. Wash with natural materials, avoid perfumes or unnatural scents. Your presence disrupts. Be patient. Learn to move without leaving a story behind. The forest remembers.

Surviving undetected is a dance with nature itself. It demands respect, patience, and absolute discipline.

Mastering the art of staying untraceable in the wild requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and resourcefulness. By following these expert tips and practicing wilderness evasion techniques, you can enhance your ability to navigate the wilderness undetected.

For preppers ready to disappear into the wild, mastering these principles isn’t just survival, it’s victory. In the silence of the forest, you become legend. A ghost unseen. A shadow untraceable. Stay silent. Stay hidden. Survive.

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com

 

When a woman hears the words, “You need a double mastectomy,” time often seems to stand still. It's more than a medical decision. It's a moment that begins an emotional journey that few women are truly prepared for. A journey filled with fear, loss, and questions about identity, femininity, and the future.

Breasts are more than just a part of the body. For many women, they symbolize motherhood, sensuality, womanhood, and self-expression. The thought of losing them can feel like losing a part of who you are. It’s not vanity, it’s vulnerability. It’s mourning the body you've known, loved, and lived in, and facing a future that looks and feels unfamiliar.

There’s fear of the surgery, fear of complications, fear of recurrence, and fear of how others will react. Will my partner still find me attractive? Will I feel comfortable in my own skin? Will I ever feel “normal” again?  These questions weigh heavily, and often, silently. Many women keep smiling on the outside while battling anxiety, depression, and grief within.

After surgery, looking in the mirror can be jarring. The scars are physical reminders of trauma, but they also tell a story of strength and survival. Still, the mirror can feel cruel in the early days. Clothes may fit differently. Confidence can shatter. Sexual intimacy might feel foreign. It’s not just about what’s gone, it’s about redefining beauty and worth beyond appearance.

It’s common to feel isolated during this time. Friends and family may mean well, but not truly understand. Support groups can help, but many women still feel alone in their experience, especially if they don’t know anyone who’s walked this path before.

True healing from a double mastectomy must include the mind and soul. Counseling, journaling, support groups, and honest conversations can be vital lifelines. Finding ways to reclaim control, through reconstructive surgery, beautiful tattoos over scars, or proudly choosing to remain flat.

There is no right or wrong way to move forward, only what’s right for you.

I personally chose to stay flat. I don't have a man in my life right now, so there was nothing to consider there and was able to chose what I wanted for myself. I did my best to look at the positives of being flat.  I survived a cancer scare, I don't have to tug and pull with the discomfort of a bra anymore and, my personal favorite, all that money I'm going to save not buying bras in the future. 

The freedom I feel by staying flat and not having to wearing a cumbersome bra everyday is so great it's hard to describe. I'm so happy with this decision. 

I did get a sporty and a supportive looking set of bras with prosthetics just in case I need them.  It's been a few years now and the only time I wore the prosthetics was at my late boyfriends funeral. 

If you're preparing for or recovering from a double mastectomy, please hear this:

You are still whole.

You are still beautiful.

 

You are still you, braver and stronger than ever.  Allow yourself to grieve. Be patient with the healing process.  Never be ashamed of the scars that tell your story.

You are not alone. 

You are more than enough.

 

Resources for Support:

BreastCancer.org Forums Flat Closure NOW

FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered

Local breast cancer support groups and mental health counselors in your area

 

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com

The Ultimate Guide to Staying Hydrated in Hot Weather

 

I was watching the news recently, and they reported that temperatures in Alaska are rising three times faster than in any other state. Alaska—can you believe it? If that's happening

up there, what does it mean for us down south? We hit 109 degrees today, and the hottest part of summer is still ahead.

As the temperature rises, it's crucial to prioritize hydration to stay healthy and energized. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues, especially in hot weather. Here is the ultimate guide to staying hydrated in hot weather.

Why is staying hydrated important in hot weather?

In hot weather, your body loses more water through sweat in an effort to cool down. Dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion or even heatstroke, which can be life-threatening. Staying hydrated helps maintain your body's temperature and ensures that your organs function properly.

 

🚨 Signs of Heat Stroke to Watch For:

• Body temperature of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher
• Hot, red, dry or damp skin
• Fast, strong pulse
• Headache
• Dizziness or confusion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of consciousness (fainting)
• Slurred speech or strange behavior

 

🆘 What to Do Immediately:

• Move the person to a cooler place – Shade or an air-conditioned area is best.
• Cool them down quickly – Use cool cloths, a cold bath, or ice packs on the neck, armpits, and groin.
• Do NOT give them anything to drink if they are confused, unconscious, or vomiting.

 

📞 When to Call an Ambulance:

• The person is confused, unresponsive, or unconscious.
• They have a seizure.
• Their body temperature is very high and not coming down.
• They are vomiting or unable to drink water safely.

 

Heat stroke can be deadly,
quick action can save a life.

How much water should you drink in hot weather?

The general recommendation is to drink at least 8-10 cups of water per day. In hot weather, you may need to increase your water intake to compensate for the fluid lost through sweat. Aim to drink an additional 1-2 cups of water for every hour of outdoor activity in hot weather.

 

What are the signs of dehydration?

It's important to recognize the signs of dehydration to take action promptly. Symptoms include dark yellow urine, dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, and headache. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to rehydrate immediately.

 

How can you stay hydrated in hot weather?

1. Carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times to ensure easy access to water.
2. Drink water before you feel thirsty, as thirst is a sign of dehydration.
3. Eat water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables to supplement your fluid intake.
4. Avoid sugary and caffeinated beverages, as they can dehydrate you.
5. Set reminders to drink water regularly, especially if you're busy or distracted.

Are there any alternatives to plain water?

If you find plain water boring, you can opt for infused water by adding fruits, herbs, or cucumbers for flavor. Coconut water is another excellent alternative that is rich in electrolytes and can help replenish lost fluids.

What should you do if you suspect dehydration?

If you suspect dehydration, it's essential to stop any physical activity, find a cool place to rest, and rehydrate immediately. You can also consider consuming oral rehydration solutions or sports drinks to replenish lost electrolytes.

 

By following these tips and staying mindful of your fluid intake, you can stay hydrated and healthy in hot weather. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to dehydration, so make staying hydrated a priority this summer!

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com

The Best Way to Keep Your Garden Hydrated in Hot Temperatures

Temperatures across the United States have been rising steadily over the past several decades, with the last nine years (2016–2024) ranking among the ten warmest on record. According to NOAA, the average U.S. temperature has increased by about 2.6°F (1.4°C) since 1901, with over 90% of that warming occurring since 1970.

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, and the duration of the hot season is lengthening. At the same time, drought conditions are worsening, especially in the western states. In 2022, nearly 60% of the continental U.S. experienced moderate to exceptional drought, one of the highest percentages in recent history.

Persistent drought has lowered reservoir levels, stressed agriculture, and increased wildfire risks, making water scarcity a growing concern for millions of Americans. These trends highlight the urgent need for climate adaptation and water conservation strategies nationwide.

As a dedicated gardener, you know that maintaining proper hydration for your plants is crucial, especially during hot temperatures. So, what is the best way to keep your garden hydrated when the sun is beating down? Let's explore some expert tips and techniques to ensure your garden thrives even in the hottest of conditions.

Choose the Right Time to Water

Timing is key when it comes to watering your garden during hot weather. The best time to water your plants is early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not at its peak. This helps to reduce water loss through evaporation and ensures that your plants have enough moisture to withstand the heat of the day.

Here is an example of what your water schedule might look like:

Frequency: 3 times per week (e.g., Monday, Wednesday, Saturday)

Time: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM

Duration:

Vegetable gardens: 30–45 minutes

Flower beds: 20–30 minutes

Lawns: 30–40 minutes

Potted plants: Check daily; water as needed until water drains from the bottom

 

Use Mulch to Retain Moisture

Applying a layer of mulch around your plants is an effective way to retain soil moisture and prevent evaporation. Mulch acts as a barrier, keeping the soil cool and moist, which is essential for plant roots to absorb water efficiently. Organic mulches like straw, wood chips, or compost are excellent choices for retaining moisture in the soil.

Mulch not only helps retain soil moisture but also reduces weed growth and keeps the soil temperature cooler—perfect for surviving those scorching summer days!

Choose the Right Mulch

Use organic mulch like shredded bark, straw (not hay), grass clippings (dried), compost, or wood chips. These materials break down over time and enrich the soil.

1. Prepare the Soil
2. Water your garden thoroughly before applying mulch.
3. Pull any visible weeds and fluff up compacted soil if needed.
4. Apply the Mulch
5. Spread mulch 2 to 4 inches deep around plants and over exposed soil.
6. Keep mulch about 1–2 inches away from plant stems or trunks to prevent rot and pests.
7. Maintain the Mulch Layer
8. Replenish mulch as needed throughout the summer, especially if it thins out.
9. Avoid piling it too thickly, as this can suffocate plant roots.
10. Water Deeply and Infrequently

Instead of frequent, shallow watering, opt for deep watering sessions less often. This encourages plant roots to grow deeper into the soil in search of water, making them more resilient to drought conditions. Aim to water your garden to a depth of at least 6 inches to ensure that the entire root system receives adequate moisture.

Water Less Often, But Longer

Instead of watering daily, water 2–3 times per week, depending on your soil and plant types.

For example, water every Monday and Thursday for 30–60 minutes using a soaker hose, drip irrigation, or slow sprinkler.

Aim for 6–8 Inches Deep

The goal is to moisten the soil 6–8 inches deep, where most roots grow.

After watering, stick a long screwdriver or soil probe into the ground—if it goes in easily, you’ve watered deep enough.

Early Morning Watering

Water between 6 AM and 9 AM to reduce evaporation and allow plants to absorb moisture before peak heat.

Use Mulch to Lock in Moisture

After watering, apply 2–4 inches of mulch around your plants to help the soil retain water longer and reduce surface evaporation.

For Raised Beds or Flower Gardens:

1. Water for 45 minutes using a soaker hose Monday & Thursday
2. Check soil depth weekly and adjust time if needed

This method trains roots to grow deeper and become more drought-tolerant, which is key to surviving extreme summer heat.

Invest in a Drip Irrigation System

A drip irrigation system is a convenient and efficient way to keep your garden hydrated during hot weather. This system delivers water directly to the base of plants, minimizing water waste through evaporation and runoff. With a drip irrigation system, you can ensure that your plants receive a consistent and controlled amount of water, promoting healthy growth.

Here’s an example of how to invest in a drip irrigation system to keep your garden healthy during the hot summer months while conserving water:

Assess Your Garden's Needs

Identify what areas need watering—raised beds, flower borders, vegetable rows, or container plants. Measure the space and note the number of plants.

Choose a Basic Starter Kit

1. Start with a drip irrigation kit (available at hardware stores or online for $30–$100) that includes tubing, emitters, connectors, stakes, and a pressure regulator.
2. Look for one labeled for gardens, raised beds, or containers, depending on your setup.

Install the System

1. Attach the main tubing to your outdoor faucet or rain barrel.
2. Lay the tubing through your garden, anchoring it near plant roots.
3. Insert emitters or drip heads where needed (1 per plant or every 12–18 inches for rows).
4. Add a timer to automate watering early in the morning.
5. Test and Adjust: Turn the system on and check for leaks or clogged emitters.
6. Adjust the timer to water 2–3 times a week for 30–60 minutes, depending on soil and plant needs.
7. Maintain It Weekly: Clean filters and check emitters to ensure efficient flow throughout the season.

Drip irrigation saves up to 50% more water than sprinklers, reduces disease by keeping foliage dry, and delivers moisture right to the roots—perfect for hot, dry summers.

Monitor Soil Moisture Levels

Regularly check the moisture levels in your soil to determine when it's time to water your garden. You can use a moisture meter or simply stick your finger into the soil to feel for moisture. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. By monitoring soil moisture levels, you can water your garden effectively and prevent water-related problems.

Here are a few effective examples of how to monitor soil moisture levels to help save water during the extreme heat of summer:

1. The Finger Test (Simple & Free)

• Stick your finger 2–3 inches into the soil near your plant.
• If the soil feels dry at your fingertip, it’s time to water.
• If it still feels cool and moist, wait another day.

2. Use a Soil Moisture Meter

• Buy an inexpensive soil moisture meter (typically $10–$20).
• Insert the probe 4–6 inches deep near your plants.
• A dial or digital display will show if the soil is dry, moist, or wet.
• Water only when the meter reads “dry” or on the low end of “moist.

 

3. Screwdriver or Skewer Method

• Push a long screwdriver or wooden skewer into the soil.
• If it slides in easily, the soil still has moisture.
• If it’s difficult to push in or comes out dry, your garden needs water.

 

4. Track with a Watering Journal or App

Keep a simple journal or use a gardening app to log:

1. Rainfall
2. Soil moisture observations
3. This helps you avoid overwatering and stick to a deep, infrequent schedule.

By following these expert tips, you can keep your garden hydrated and healthy even in the hottest temperatures. Remember to adjust your watering schedule based on the specific needs of your plants and the weather conditions in your area. With the right approach, you can enjoy a thriving garden throughout the summer months.

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com

 

 

How To Stay Safe With Self-Defense Skills

When it comes to personal safety, having self-defense skills can make a significant difference in dangerous situations. Whether you are walking alone at night or facing a potential threat, being prepared with the right techniques can help you stay safe.

Self-defense is about protecting yourself from harm by using physical force or techniques. The key principles include awareness, avoidance, de-escalation, and physical defense as a last resort. By being aware of your surroundings and potential threats, you can often avoid dangerous situations altogether.

Situational awareness is crucial for staying safe. Pay attention to your surroundings, trust your instincts, and avoid distractions like using your phone while walking. By staying alert and focused, you can spot potential threats early and take action to protect yourself.

Basic self-defense techniques include striking vulnerable areas like the eyes, nose, throat, and groin. Learning how to deliver effective strikes can help you fend off an attacker and create an opportunity to escape. Additionally, techniques like blocking, kicking, and grappling can be valuable in self-defense situations.

The basic techniques of self-defense focus on awareness, prevention, and physical responses that help protect yourself in dangerous situations. Here are the core techniques:

---

 1. Awareness and Prevention (Most Important)

• Stay alert: Know your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar or isolated areas.
• Avoid risky situations: Walk confidently, avoid distractions (like phones), and trust your instincts.
• Set boundaries: Use assertive body language and voice if someone makes you uncomfortable.

 

🛡️ 2. Basic Physical Self-Defense Techniques Strikes (Target Weak Areas)

• Palm strike: Strike the nose or chin with the base of your palm.
• Elbow strike: Powerful and close-range; great for hitting the head or chest.
• Knee strike: Drive your knee into the attacker’s groin or thigh.
• Kick: Aim for shins, knees, or groin – especially useful if you want to escape quickly.

Blocks and Deflections

• Forearm block: Deflect punches or grabs with your arms.
• Parry or redirect: Use open hands to move attacks aside with minimal effort.

Escapes from Common Holds

• Wrist grab release: Twist your wrist toward the attacker’s thumb and pull away.
• Bear hug escape (from behind): Lower your weight, stomp on their foot, and elbow or strike backward.
• Choke escape: Tuck your chin, turn to the side, and raise your arms to break free.

 

🧠 3. Psychological Techniques

• Use your voice: Yell “Back off!” or “Help!” loudly – this attracts attention and may scare the attacker.
• Stay calm: Panic reduces your ability to act. Controlled breathing can help.

 

🏃♀️ 4. Escape and Get Help

• Prioritize escape: The goal is not to fight, but to get away safely.
• Call emergency services as soon as possible.

 

🥋 Optional: Learn Martial Arts for Self-Defense

These can build confidence and skill:

• Krav Maga (practical self-defense)
• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (grappling/ground defense)
• Muay Thai or Boxing (striking)
• Judo or Aikido (throws and redirection)

Regular practice is essential for honing your self-defense skills and building muscle memory. By training consistently, you can improve your reflexes, coordination, and confidence in using self-defense techniques. This can make a significant difference in a high-stress situation where split-second decisions matter.

Self-defense training not only equips you with physical skills but also boosts your confidence and mental resilience. Knowing that you have the ability to protect yourself can help you feel more empowered and prepared to handle challenging situations. Confidence is a key component of self-defense and personal safety.

Remember, self-defense is about protecting yourself and staying safe in threatening situations. By learning and practicing self-defense skills, you can enhance your safety awareness and readiness to respond effectively when needed. Stay safe, stay prepared, and prioritize your personal safety at all times.

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com

How To Reduce Impulse Buying

Impulse buying is a common challenge for young adults, often fueled by emotional triggers, social influence, and the ease of online shopping. It can lead to financial strain, making it harder to save for long-term goals, and contribute to cluttered living spaces filled with unnecessary or rarely used items. However, developing mindful shopping habits can help curb impulse purchases and promote financial well-being.

 

Reasons Behind Impulse Buying

1. Emotional Triggers – Stress, boredom, or excitement can drive impulsive spending as a form of instant gratification.
2. Marketing Tactics – Retailers use psychological strategies such as limited-time offers, discounts, and scarcity marketing to encourage spontaneous purchases.
3. Social Influence – Peer pressure and social media ads make certain products seem irresistible, pushing young adults to spend impulsively.
4. Easy Access to Shopping – The convenience of one-click purchases and mobile payment options makes buying effortless and often thoughtless.

 

Strategies to Reduce Impulse Buying

1. Create a Budget & Stick to It – Setting a monthly spending limit and tracking expenses can prevent unnecessary purchases.
2. Use the 24-Hour Rule – Before making a non-essential purchase, wait 24 hours to see if the desire to buy still exists. This helps differentiate between wants and needs.
3. Make a Shopping List – Whether grocery shopping or browsing online, sticking to a pre-made list prevents unplanned purchases.
4. Unsubscribe from Marketing Emails – Reducing exposure to promotional emails and ads lowers the temptation to shop.
5. Limit Credit Card Use – Using cash or a debit card for discretionary spending can make purchases feel more tangible and reduce overspending.
6. Find Alternatives to Emotional Spending – Engaging in hobbies, exercise, or social activities can replace shopping as a coping mechanism.
7. Declutter & Reflect – Regularly organizing and evaluating past impulse buys can serve as a reminder of unnecessary purchases and encourage more intentional spending.

By implementing these strategies, young adults can develop healthier financial habits, reduce clutter, and make more mindful decisions when it comes to spending.

 

Understand the Psychology Behind Impulse Buying

Impulse buying is not simply a matter of willpower. It is often rooted in our emotions and influenced by how businesses shape the buying experience. Advertisements, limited-time offers, social media posts, and even friends can create a strong urge to spend. Many times, buying something new gives you a short burst of happiness, which can feel especially tempting when you are stressed or feeling down.

As you step into financial independence, it is important to recognize these patterns. One of the most powerful tools you have is awareness. The next time you feel the pull to buy something on a whim, pause and ask yourself, am I buying this because I truly need it, or because it is filling an emotional gap? Remember, marketing often plays on your emotions, making you believe a product will improve your life, but that feeling usually fades quickly.

To build stronger habits, you can practice simple strategies. Give yourself a waiting period before purchasing non-essential items. This could be twenty-four hours or even a full week. You can also unsubscribe from marketing emails and unfollow social media accounts that tempt you to spend. Creating a clear budget that reflects your priorities will help you stay grounded, making it easier to say no to unnecessary purchases.

By becoming more aware of the emotional triggers behind your spending, you are taking an important step toward becoming a more mindful and confident money manager. Each choice you make helps strengthen your ability to control your finances, rather than letting your finances control you.

 

Avoiding situations that trigger impulse buying...

Avoiding situations that trigger impulse buying can be a powerful way to break the habit. Start by unsubscribing from marketing emails that tempt you to spend. Consider unfollowing social media accounts that promote constant shopping. When possible, limit your time in stores or online shopping environments, especially when you are feeling stressed or bored. By creating some space between yourself and these triggers, you give yourself a better chance to make thoughtful, intentional financial choices.

 

Create a detailed list of needed items

Create a detailed list of the items you truly need before you begin shopping. Take the time to review your budget and plan your purchases carefully. Once your list is made, commit to buying only what is on it. Bring the list with you, whether you are shopping in person or online, and refer to it as you go. This simple practice helps you stay focused, reduces the temptation to make spontaneous purchases, and builds discipline around spending. Over time, using a list can strengthen your ability to make intentional choices and keep your finances on track.

 

Take some time to consider the necessity and value of the item.

Take some time to reflect on whether the item is truly necessary and whether it offers lasting value. Before making a purchase, ask yourself if this is something you need right now or if it can wait. Practicing delayed gratification helps you build clarity around your spending decisions. It allows you to separate momentary wants from genuine needs, and in doing so, you strengthen your ability to make choices that support your long-term financial well-being. The more you practice this, the easier it becomes to resist the pull of impulse buying.

 

Establishing clear financial goals

Establish clear financial goals that inspire and motivate you. Whether you are saving for a special trip, building an emergency fund, or working toward greater financial freedom, having specific goals helps give purpose to your spending choices. When you feel the urge to make an impulse purchase, pause and remind yourself of the bigger picture. Ask yourself if this purchase supports or takes away from the goals you have set. Keeping your goals front and center makes it easier to stay disciplined, turning short-term temptations into opportunities to practice self-control and stay on track with your financial plan.

 

Share your goal of reducing impulse buying

Share your goal of reducing impulse buying with a trusted friend or family member. Let them know what you are working toward and ask if they would be willing to help hold you accountable. Having someone to check in with provides extra support and encouragement, especially when you are feeling tempted to stray from your budget. Sometimes just knowing that someone else is aware of your goals can help strengthen your resolve. Accountability also creates an opportunity to celebrate your progress, which builds confidence and reinforces positive financial habits over time.

 By implementing these strategies, young adults can take control of their spending habits, make more intentional purchases, and work towards financial stability and long-term goals.

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com 

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