Opting out is underrated. Thinking for example of Iran right now. It's no fault of common iranians alive today that they live under a mad dictator. The war drums are on. We should be humble and understand that this can happen to any of us. You can't decide where you are born. I know opting out is difficult for many, but it might be the thing that saves you - before the war ships arrive and after. Opting out after is even more difficult. In the west, we live comfortable lives, but I can hear the echoes of the war drums. I am not saying this to scare you. Opting out now is much easier than later. What does it mean? Useful first steps: - Global optionality. Try to untie yourself from a place. - Detach yourself from the chiefs and captains. You are not your government. You have almost nothing in common with them. Don't vote for them, don't expect anything from them. If you catch yourself expecting something to be provided by them, breathe and get it out of your head. - Build networks outside. Look around. The planet is huge and there are always options. A bit of a prepper larping is fine. Enjoy the decline.