Before You Run — Introduction

Deciding to run for office is exciting — and a little overwhelming.
Before you order yard signs or start shaking hands, it’s worth taking a hard look at what this journey really involves.

We wrote these guides because too many first-time candidates get blindsided by the realities of campaigning. They imagine the speeches, the debates, and the big ideas — but not the 7 p.m. ribbon cutting after a full day of work, or the 200 doors you’ll knock in a week where most people aren’t home. We’ve seen people burn out, spend more than they planned, or realize too late that the role they ran for doesn’t match what they actually want to do.

These guides aren’t here to scare you off. They’re here to set you up for success by helping you:

• Understand the time, energy, and financial commitments before you commit.
• Match the right office to your skills, passions, and lifestyle.
• Clarify why you’re running so you can share it authentically and consistently.
• Get a real sense of what campaign life feels like — before you’re in the middle of it.
• Build boundaries, expectations, and a support network so you don’t burn out.
• Step into the process as yourself, not as someone trying to fit a generic “politician” mold.

Running for office is personal. You bring your own strengths, your own style, and your own reasons for stepping up. Our goal is to help you embrace that authenticity while being prepared for the work ahead.

Think of these guides as a tactical briefing from someone who’s been there — direct, practical, and focused on helping you decide if this path is right for you. If you choose to run, you’ll do it with your eyes open, a plan in hand, and the confidence that you know exactly what you’re getting into.

Let’s dig in.

(If you already know you want to run and skip this, we recommend checking out The Basics guide.)