Avoid the Election Season Drama

It’s that time again. We see it every four years (and sometimes more depending on your community) where politicians make our blood pressures rise, and friends and family bicker over trivial points of contention. As we also enter into the fall Thanksgiving Season, where it is suggested to stay away from conversations of politics, religion and if that single friend or family member will ever pop the question, I want to encourage some healthy conversations about how we try solve all the problems of the world. 🙂

• Listen to understand versus hear to respond. This may sound easy, but it’s really not. I challenge you to listen to the conversations that are surrounding you, and instead of just responding with your opposing view, ask questions to better understand the other person. Asking questions like “why is that important to you” and “how does that issue impact you directly or indirectly” are great ways to establish motivation behind a person’s feelings on an issue. There may be more there than you realize.
• Remember that we are all neighbors, community members, brothers, sisters, daughters, sons, mothers, fathers and friends. I come from the belief that we are all born as good people. We do have the ability (and have probably shown this to you on occasion) to be kind and loving people. I bet when it comes right down to it, we all want the same things: To be happy, healthy and be able to live a good life. The same is true for those running for and serving in public office.
• Soundbites do not equal daily life. Even before social media became a thing, media outlets sensationalized activities, words and photos to create interest and commentary that sells. Ask yourself why a baby dropping the f-bomb gets millions of views? I rest my case.

Be kind to yourself and others. And remember that when you turn off your devices and look around you that the ones who smile and say “hi” on the sidewalk are those people who may not agree with your political views, but are people who have a heart and make your world a better place.