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Welcome to another edition of the 1% Habits Newsletter!

This is where you’ll get up-to-date information on small wins to improve your habits, productivity, and life satisfaction. 

Let’s get to it.

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📈 My #1 Dad Quote (And Why It Matters on the Road)

One of my favorite “Dad Quotes” that I repeat to my kids all the time is:

“It’s better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.”

This saying has become even more relevant lately as we get ready for our month-long road trip to Canada.

We’re leaving in a few days, and right now we’re deep in the process of going over what to pack in the car. It’s a little overwhelming, but it’s also a great reminder of the importance of being prepared for anything that might come our way.

As I was double-checking our packing list, I thought about the portable charging station and jumper cables we keep in the car.

Gone are the days when traditional jumper cables were the go-to solution for a dead car battery. While they might seem reliable, jumper cables come with significant drawbacks.

For example, you need another car—and the willingness of a stranger—to help you out. That can be a daunting prospect, or even dangerous, especially if you’re in a deserted area or it’s late at night.

Instead, I highly recommend keeping a portable jumper unit in your car. It’s a compact, powerful device that can jumpstart your car without needing any external help. Not only is it convenient, it’s a must these days.

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Why It’s Important to Be Prepared

Let me share a quick story:

About three years ago, right before Christmas, we had new neighbors move in across the street. We hadn’t had a chance to introduce ourselves yet—everyone was busy with the holidays and settling in.

Then, one chilly evening, I noticed they were having trouble with their car in the driveway. Their battery was dead, and since it was late and cold, they were in a bit of a bind.

I grabbed my DBPower portable starter and walked over to help. Within minutes, their car was running again, and what could have been a stressful situation turned into a great icebreaker. We chatted, shared a few laughs, and it ended up being the perfect way to welcome them to the neighborhood.

Sometimes, being prepared isn’t just about solving your own problems—it’s a great way to connect with others, too.

Why Is It Helpful to Keep a Portable Charging Station in the Car?

● Independence and safety: With a portable jumper, you’re self-sufficient and your safety isn’t compromised, especially if you’re in an isolated location or your car needs a jump at odd hours.

● Ease of use: These devices are incredibly user-friendly. Unlike traditional jumper cables, which require precise connections (not fun in the dark) and a second vehicle, portable jumpers are straightforward to operate with clear instructions.

● Versatility: Many portable jumpers come with features like USB ports for charging devices and built-in flashlights. This makes them valuable for more than just jumpstarting your car.

But this mindset—being prepared for the unexpected—shouldn’t just stop at your car. It’s a good idea to think through other items you might need in case of emergencies, whether you’re on the road or at home.

Other Must-Haves for Your Car Emergency Kit

It’s easy to overlook the little things that can make a big difference when you’re on the road, especially when you’re focused on the excitement of your trip or just getting through a busy week. But having a well-stocked emergency kit in your car isn’t just for worst-case scenarios—it’s about peace of mind. Whether you face a flat tire, unexpected weather, or just a long stretch without services, having the right supplies means you’re ready for whatever comes your way. Here are a few essentials I always recommend keeping in your car:

● First aid kit

● Bottled water and non-perishable snacks

● Flashlight (with extra batteries)

● Blanket or emergency thermal blanket

● Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife

● Tire repair kit and portable air compressor

● Road flares or reflective triangles

● Rain poncho and warm gloves

● Phone charger (car adapter or battery bank)

● Duct tape (because you never know)

● Spare fuses and basic tools

● List of emergency contacts

And for your home, here’s a quick checklist of items to help you prepare for the unexpected:

● Flashlights and extra batteries

● Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

● First aid kit (with extra medications if needed)

● Bottled water (at least a few days’ supply per person)

● Non-perishable food items

● Manual can opener

● Extra blankets and warm clothing

● Fire extinguisher

● Copies of important documents (in a waterproof bag)

● Emergency cash

● Power banks or solar chargers for devices

● Multi-tool or basic toolkit

● Candles and matches/lighters (stored safely)

● Whistle (to signal for help)

● Local maps (in case your phone GPS isn’t working)

Why Planning Ahead Matters

Life has a way of throwing curveballs at us—whether it’s a flat tire in the middle of nowhere, a sudden storm that knocks out the power, or just a simple mistake like locking your keys in the car.

Planning ahead and being prepared means you’re not caught off guard when these things happen. You can respond with confidence and keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

It’s not about being paranoid—it’s about being practical. As I tell my kids, “It’s better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.” A little preparation can turn a potential disaster into just another story you laugh about later (and maybe even a way to meet your neighbors).

So as you head into your next road trip, or just your next busy week, take a few minutes to check your emergency kits—both in your car and at home.

You never know when you’ll be glad you did.

Talk soon,

Steve

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