As we approach the end of the school year, it is everyone’s favorite time of year, election season. Because democracy is an integral part of AZA and BBG, the elections that take place around the order are necessary to keep the movement moving and functioning. Despite the meaningful parts of elections, many people running can find elections anxiety inducing, and hopefully this framing can help reduce any stress you might have.
Elections have so many factors that one can not control, so don’t worry about them. You can’t control what questions you might get, who else is running, and the priorities of the voting body. You can just control how prepared you are for the election, so I would recommend spending more time doing prep work so you can be the most confident version of yourself during elections. I know this is easier said than done, but your energy and time is super valuable, and it is typically not productive.
Now don’t go in thinking your going to lose, because you will just psych your self out. This advice more so means that you should fully acknowledge that you might lose and have a plan. I would make sure you have a fully free afternoon after elections so you can feel your emotions. Additionally, making sure you have comfort food and a support system for you in the scenario in which you are unsuccessful.
The electing body is thinking about what is the best for the chapter/region/order. No one is walking into the election thinking “I really want/don’t want xyz on board.” I know it is extremely hard to do this, but not taking election results personally will help you take the results in a more healthy perspective.
The day of the elections is typically stressful and having less choices to make can lessen your stress. The right outfit can also make you feel like the most confident version of yourself. Make sure when you are choosing an outfit that it does fit the outfit guidelines for the election.
If you are unsuccessful in your election, know there is so much you can do. Being a general member can be extremely fun and rewarding. Also, the ILN and RLN have amazing opportunities for you to join, such as steering, chair positions, and press corp.
Happy Election Season!
Naomi is a BBG living in Dallas and loves to travel.
All views expressed on content written for The Shofar represent the opinions and thoughts of the individual authors. The author biography represents the author at the time in which they were in BBYO.
