Beware political hype and other life sucking events.

Nothing can suck the life out of a conversation faster than religion and politics. Its no stretch to think that these two have been the bane of many a family argument.

People throughout the ages been lead astray thinking their current political or religious climate was somehow unique in world history. That if we didn’t vote for or support a specific leader or group the other side would destroy life as we know it. For those in the United States, imagine life during the Civil War, Great Depression, World War 1 & 2, Civil Rights Movement, Cold war, Covid-19 or aftermath of Nine-Eleven. It probably seemed that the US was at its end only to find that life pretty much continued on the same as before.

Today, politically, it can be seen in the stupid phrase “threat to democracy”. Which of course is meant to illicit fear and guilt to push people to vote towards the only person standing up for democracy. The only problem – both candidates seem to think they are the only ones standing up for democracy. A ridiculous claim either way.

Yet, if it helps you sleep at night, you can believe this election cycle is somehow unique in world history. But more than likely this belief is causing more stress and worry than it should.

Just remember, when it’s all said and done, life will continue. After all the hype, hysteria and name-calling is finished, we will still get up every morning and do what it takes to live our life. Although the political hype and hysteria will probably continue as well.

5 things I believe are important to remember this election season.

1. This election is not more negative than past elections. Nor is it any more nasty, dirty, or destructive than other points in all of history. Check this article to find out more – Negative campaigning and its consequences: a review and a look ahead

2. Polls, pundits, and the political media talking heads should not be trusted. Numbers, quotes, and people’s past histories are easy to manipulate and subject to interpretation. Here are a few great articles on the subject – 19 Things We Learned from the 2016 Election  &  Lessons on How to Lie with Statistics

3. Don’t let politics destroy positive relationships. Political disagreements have destroyed too many family and friends. Controlling our emotions, knowing when to back off, and reading other’s body language is important during any debate. Here’s something that may help:  What to Do When Politics Threaten Your Relationship

4. Contemplate this: Does one candidates’ election really affect your life that much? Now there may be some exceptions (i.e. military families, law enforcement, and various professions or industries). But, for most people, it really doesn’t matter who’s in office. Is it worth harboring anger and resentment about things out of our control?  Here’s a very thorough article on the subject.- Section 3: Political Polarization and Personal Life

5. Don’t let politics get you off track. Our dreams, goals, purpose, and effectiveness can be side railed by many things. Don’t let politics be one of them. Be careful that Political Derangement Syndrome doesn’t pull you down.  Figure out a way to use politics for your advantage and to help others in your sphere of influence. Read more from OneMeanDream: Finding our Focus in an Unfocused World (Secret Weapon of Successful People)