Survival competition series Extracted is proving to be a major hit for FOX. With 12 amateur survivalists and their families taking part in the brutal show, it’s giving everything reality TV competition lovers want from a new entry to their midseason viewing. We caught up with survival expert Megan Hine, who just so happens to be the show’s head of extraction, and she reflected on how you can use lessons from the world of survival to tap into your inner strength during your every-day life. Below, in her words, Megan takes you through all of that and more.
Megan Hine: Survival inside and outside of the wild
Survival in the wild isn’t just about physical endurance — it’s about mindset, strategy, and
adaptability. The most successful survival stories are those who remained calm under
pressure, thought critically, and embraced the unknown.
For over 20 years, I’ve led expeditions and film crews through some of the world’s most
unforgiving landscapes, from dense jungles to arid deserts to high mountain. Time and
time again, I’ve seen the same truth play out: the strongest survivors are rarely just the
fittest or prepared—they’re the ones who adapt, stay calm under pressure, and trust their
instincts while applying their training and knowledge.
These same survival principles apply to everyday life. Whether you’re navigating personal
challenges, career setbacks, or unexpected change, the wilderness offers lessons in
resilience that can help you thrive.
Lesson 1. Control the controlables
When you’re stranded in the wild, panic is your worst enemy. The key to survival is
focusing on what you can control — your mindset, your actions, and your response to the
situation. A practical tool to manage this is the STOP acronym:
- Stop: Pause immediately to halt any surge of panic.
- Think: Calmly assess the situation and your emotional state.
- Observe: Take in your surroundings, noting available resources and potential hazards.
- Plan: Formulate a clear, actionable strategy based on your observations.
This simple process helps you shift from overwhelming emotions to small, actionable
steps, whether you’re in a survival scenario or facing life’s challenges. Preparation and
training increase your ability to control outcomes, so investing in knowledge before you
need it is key.
Lesson 2. Balance instinct with knowledge
Nature has a way of sharpening our intuition. When we strip away modern distractions, we
become more attuned to our gut feelings — whether it’s sensing a storm coming or realising
we need to step away from a toxic situation. However, in survival scenarios, instincts alone
are not always reliable. Training and experience help refine decision-making, allowing you
to distinguish between fear-driven reactions and informed choices. Trust your instincts, but
also verify them against what you know to be true.
Lesson 3. Adapt and overcome
Survival is about flexibility. Survivors aren’t those who stick rigidly to a plan — they’re the
ones who adapt when things go wrong. In everyday life, resilience comes from the ability
to pivot, whether that’s adjusting to a career change, handling rejection, or rebuilding after
failure. Preparation, combined with adaptability makes the difference between those who
endure and those who thrive.
Lesson 4. Build your tribe
As a species, we are not designed to live alone. No one thrives in isolation — whether in the
wilderness or in life. In the wild, teamwork and trust can mean the difference between life
and death, as survival often hinges on our ability to rely on others. In everyday life,
surrounding yourself with the right people — those who lift you up, challenge you, and
support you — is just as crucial. A strong network not only offers emotional support but also
provides invaluable knowledge, guidance, and fresh perspectives that empower us to
overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Lesson 5. Move with purpose
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that survival is not just about momentum—it’s
about moving with purpose. When you stop moving completely, doubt and fear can set in.
However, in survival, stopping to reassess can sometimes be the best course of action.
The same applies to life: when things get tough, take thoughtful, deliberate steps
forward—however small. Progress, no matter how slow, is still progress, but rushing
without assessing your situation can lead to mistakes.
In my best selling book, Mind of a Survivor, I explore these survival lessons through the
lens of real-world experiences, sharing the raw, unfiltered moments that test human
resilience. The wild is an incredible teacher, and whether you find yourself deep in the
jungle or facing the challenges of everyday life, the same principles apply.
The next time you feel overwhelmed, remember: you are stronger than you think. Survival
isn’t just about enduring — it’s about taking the next stope to overcome and thrive, and the
right mindset, preparation, and adaptability will help you do just that.
Extracted continues Mondays at 8/7c on FOX.
TELL US – WILL YOU BE PUTTING THESE TIPS TO GOOD USE? HAVE YOU BEEN ENJOYING EXTRACTED?
