For some reason, many would-be world changers back away from participating after they hear an early “no.” Many of us struggle to see our way past that first roadblock and toward another path.
Tag Archives: Leadership
Political Capital: Are You Building It Or Burning It?
Too often, defeatism sets in well before you reach the limit of your effectiveness in advocacy. Years ago, I would commonly call it out as an unfortunate byproduct of the microwave oven. We’ve lived for decades now with the ability to near instantaneously address even complex cravings. But useful tools like the microwave have also made us exceedingly impatient. They’ve also helped us forget that putting in the reps matters.
Step 3: Get Small
It’s not on a volunteer advocate to deliver the entire agenda for a cause. That’s not fair, and it’s also not possible.
Bring Your Cause Home With You
The whole system is rigged. Lobbyists like me have all the access because we’re there – in the capital cities – and regular people are shut out. So, is it really worth it to travel all the way to Washington, DC, wear uncomfortable clothes, sit across from perfect strangers and talk about your issues? DoesContinue reading “Bring Your Cause Home With You”
2024 Reminder: Your Cause Will Outlast Any Election
I’m writing this piece as results are rolling in from Super Tuesday in 2024. As expected, former President Donald Trump is the story of the week, running a near clean sweep (Nikki Haley secured 17 delegates by winning Vermont). More than 600 delegates ahead of his only remaining Republican rival, no one is giving greatContinue reading “2024 Reminder: Your Cause Will Outlast Any Election”
Step Two: Make A Plan
Two weeks ago, I shared that our very first step to stand out as advocates should be building trust. Finding ways to connect with people before jumping into the politics of it all helps you play the long game. When you build that trust, you gain credibility over time. But what about the short game?Continue reading “Step Two: Make A Plan”
Step One: Build Trust
Easily one of the hardest things to do in advocacy, is choosing to trust someone you do not like. Yet that is the task at hand – as much so in 2024 as in any other time. Recently, my work took me back to Washington, DC for a marathon week of meetings. Meetings to absorbContinue reading “Step One: Build Trust”
3 Things You DON’T Have to Do to Make An Impact In Politics, 2024 Edition
It was early 2016. I was working for a member of Congress, and all the visitors to our office that day wanted to talk about was a political candidate they didn’t like. A candidate who wasn’t my boss. They were passionate, concerned people who wanted to be heard. But in the midst of their opportunityContinue reading “3 Things You DON’T Have to Do to Make An Impact In Politics, 2024 Edition”
Use These 3 Habits to Thrive Through the 2024 Presidential Election Cycle
It’s here. You’ve known it’s been coming. But it’s really here. In just over a month, American politics ramps up for its most watched contest. And on January 15, the people of Iowa will kick us off with the first-in-the-nation Republican caucus. The very next week, New Hampshire will take center stage, and we’re offContinue reading “Use These 3 Habits to Thrive Through the 2024 Presidential Election Cycle”
Volume Does Not Equal Value
“We have to get in front of them again.” “We need more people in this meeting.” “They really need to hear this from a lot of people.” “Say it louder.” These are a few of my least favorite lines to hear from advocacy organizations. Even though they’re not always wrong. There are absolutely times inContinue reading “Volume Does Not Equal Value”
Part of the Possible 