Hey Everyone! I’m Leo, and this year, I hope to improve your political awareness (in a neutral way) by writing blogs about what’s going on in our political sphere. Today, I hope to give you some valuable information and tips regarding youth political involvement, so you can stay more active and engaged.
I’m going to go out on a limb and assume that you’ve probably heard the moaning and groaning of students who wither at the sound or sight of political conversation countless times. I really don’t understand why the thought of political dialogue tends to unnerve people so much, but the prospect of this is something that we really need to fix in our society, particularly concerning our own generation.
On a more optimistic note, here are some courses of action that we should all make a point of taking part in to prevent this negligence from continuing to happen across the political sphere:
Know your stuff
As the future leaders of American society, our generation’s actions and opinions will play a huge role in the well-being and prosperity of not just the United States, but the entire world. We can’t make proper decisions without being informed, and without making proper decisions, we accomplish nothing. Being informed is vital to both a successful life and legacy. To be informed, check out some reliable sources like the New York Times or The Wall Street Journal.
Regardless of where you get your information from, though, make sure that you read multiple publications or websites before forming an opinion. Acknowledge the claims of both sides of the spectrum and form your personal opinion from there. Venture out a bit to widen your perspective and remember to remain open-minded, regardless of what your current views may be.
Open mind, open heart
Opening your mind to new ideas facilitates an opportunity for you to amend your personal judgment and way of thinking. This is absolutely crucial to the development of well-devised opinions. Of course, this doesn’t mean you’ll actually change your beliefs every time you look at something from a wider perspective, but you have the option to do so when you think with an open mind. Embrace your receptiveness!
Respect the Opinions of Others
Regardless of if you agree with the basis of someone’s opinion, it’s safe to say that it’s better than no opinion at all. Every person deserves respect, and when someone holds a different opinion with positive intentions, those intentions also deserve respect. Don’t place the value of a person in the hands of their opinions, especially when the person is well-meaning. This is a beneficial lesson to learn aside from its political relevance.
Care
No matter who you are, what you believe in, or what your story may be, you must remember to care. The success and well-being of people in your community, regardless of how big or small it may be, depends on the basis of your personal effort to care and make a difference. Regardless of your personal opinions, start somewhere by asserting some sort of effort to change something that you believe carries value in the world.
Photo provided by ideas.ted.com