Self-sufficient people are stronger. Always learn the 'why' behind things, and the methods to re-create your tools from scratch if necessary. One who does not know how to construct a space-ship is stranded on the planet he is dumped on by his enemy. Know the basic 'why' and construction behind all machines and tools you are using. A tool you cannot upkeep is doomed and will disintegrate, just as a wounded and infected limb will rot and fall off your body if not repaired.
Mistakes are the only way to really learn really new things.
Always fight back. Never give up. Do not go down with the ship. If something pulls you down into peril, then free yourself of that thing. Always test things independently yourself.