Why I'm Not Cut Out for Political Life

A question was asked in the hive learners community discord server and I will give my response in this post.

Have you ever engaged in politics before?

_Pixabay

No

I have never engaged in politics before, maybe indirectly though. I don't have personal political opinions or experience in governance. However, if I somehow had the opportunity, I do not believe I would pursue a career as a politician. There are a few reasons why politics does not appeal to me.

Politics just isn't my thing because I don't feel strongly about issues or policy like successful politicians do. I don't wake up feeling like I need to change the world or tackle big problems in government. Without that drive to make a difference, I know the stresses of political life would wear me down fast.

I'm also not outgoing or charming enough to connect with all the people you interact with in politics. I get anxious speaking in front of crowds instead of energizing them. And I'm not smooth or persuasive when meeting new people face-to-face. My personality is better suited to working quietly behind the scenes, not being a charismatic leader.

On top of that, I don't have the competitive, cutthroat mentality you often need to get ahead in politics. I don't like playing games or manipulating situations to get my way. I'd rather be cooperative than cunning. And I don't have the instinct to capitalize on other's mistakes or weaknesses. So I'd quickly get beaten by savvier operators who know how to work the system.

The bottom line is I just wasn't built for political success. I don't have the fiery passion, social talents or killer instinct it takes. My skills are better matched to roles that support the political process, not running for office. I'll leave governing to those who have the right temperament and abilities.

While I may not be cut out for governing directly, if I could improve one thing about politics from my limited outsider's view, it would be lowering the temperature of polarizing rhetoric. Political discourse today often turns bitter, hyperbolic, and vitriolic. Critics freely hurl schoolyard taunts and insults at those with differing views instead of engaging ideas. It has become distressingly normal to demonize the "other side" as fundamentally evil in blanket terms rather than debate specific policies. This circles back to rigidify positions, foster tribal mentalities, and corrode prospects for compromise.

In my estimation, more civil, issues-based discussion focused on facts over emotional appeals could help temper such overheated partisanship over time. Cooler heads need not always prevail, but the discourse could stand to be dialed back a few notches. Citizens and politicians alike should consider the shared humanity even amongst their opponents. Some basic dignity and respect amidst disagreements could go a long way. If voters demand a higher standard, elected leaders may follow suit. Those are some thoughts I have as an outsider musing about politics from the sidelines, unable to directly combat the problems I perceive. I will stick to assisting tasks rather than waging policy battles.