Politics - Mindset Distractions

It’s hard to control your mind in the middle of the political season. The manner of politics these days is as ugly as I’ve ever seen it. I grew up in a world where my family had both democrats and republicans at the table for the holidays and they could discuss the differences without today animas. They were actually very respectful and kind toward each other.

In truth, things have always been ugly within politics, but the anger, rage, and demeaning language have moved to a new level since 2016. Our politicians now make demeaning, degrading remarks about the opposite sex, their opponents’ families, and even those who suffer from handicaps and illness. For me, it became more than I could tolerate. I desperately needed a break from the constant fighting, lying, demeaning and abusive behavior.

So, I’ve made a decision to ignore all politics for the 2024 election. I’ve stopped watching political news, and removed all news but sports from my phone. I’m trying not look at or read any political stories and updates for entirety of this campaign. I’m choosing to ignore all political podcasts and simply listen to books.

Now some will say, “How did you know how to vote?” For me it’s easy. As I write this the candidates were the same two tired candidates that we heard in 2020 and one of them has been ranting since 2016. Certainly, their policies, ideas, and rhetoric haven’t changed that much in eight years.

Removing the political angst from my life has helped to clear my mind and given me the freedom to see the world through a different set of eyes. Suddenly, the anger and frustration of the political world is gone. I can see things more clearly and don’t have to get upset when politicians in DC make comments, choices, and decisions that I don’t agree with.

Please know that I’m not advocating for complete apathy when it comes to politics. I still believe that we have a right and privilege to engage our political system. It makes for good citizenry and engagement is good for our government, but I don’t need to participate at a level that affects my mental health and well-being.