146. Observing Politics Without Going Crazy

The important thing in observing politics is to maintain objectivity and ability to discuss politics in a disassociated manner. This allows one to evaluate the actions of politicians based on the outcomes rather than one's opinion of them. Recognizing good politicking is not supporting someone, just acknowledging skill.
Machiavelli was an astute political observer, capable of detesting someone and at the same time recognizing their skill. To be able to succeed, you have to do the same: know where the political winds are blowing, even if you disagree or don't like where they're going.
"To understand the nature of the people one must be a prince, and to understand the nature of the prince, one must be of the people."
-Niccolo Machiavelli
Some principles for observing politics:

Know what you believe and why
Separate discussions of ideas from people and maneuvers from beliefs
Acknowledge what you want to happen and think will happen might not match up
Don't let yourself get too angry or worked up (if you do, take a break)
Remember that politics is people and people are fickle

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