When it comes to survival, few teachers are as wise as nature itself. From towering mountains to the tiniest insects, the natural world is full of strategies for adapting, enduring, and thriving against the odds. Our Advice from Nature series celebrates this wisdom, offering reminders that the same survival instincts in the wild can guide us through life’s challenges.

Adaptability: Go with the Flow

Rivers teach us the power of flexibility. No matter the obstacle—rock, canyon, or fallen tree—a river always finds a way forward. In survival, adaptability is your strongest ally. Adjusting your course doesn’t mean giving up; it means finding the best way through.

Resilience: Stand Tall

Like the redwood trees that weather centuries of storms, resilience is about grounding yourself in what matters most. Whether in nature or in life, staying rooted while bending with the winds of change is key to long-term survival.

Awareness: Stay Alert

Survival depends on awareness. Deer survive by listening to the faintest rustle in the brush. Birds notice subtle shifts in the wind. The natural world reminds us to sharpen our senses, remain present, and pay attention to signs around us.

Resourcefulness: Use What You Have

Spiders spin webs from their own silk. Beavers build dams with branches and mud. Survival is often about making the most of what’s at hand. Instead of wishing for what you don’t have, lean into your strengths and use your resources creatively.

Endurance: Keep Moving

Mountains don’t rise overnight, and journeys through the wilderness often require patience and persistence. In survival situations, small steps matter. In life, too, endurance is what carries us from setbacks to success.