Many people get angry at politicians and think, “I should run myself.” But few discuss the hardest first step: deciding if you’re truly ready to run for public office. In her honest guide GONNA RUN: Making the Decision to Run for Public Office, author Sheila Omoth Christensen shares real lessons from her own campaigns. She stresses that the choice to run is bigger and tougher than most expect.
Christensen starts with a key question: Why do you want this? Motives matter. You need more than frustration. Running demands a huge drive. You’ll knock on doors for hours every day. Your entire life opens to public view, past mistakes, finances, and family details. Everything gets examined.
Family buy-in is crucial, yet rarely discussed upfront. Campaigns steal time from home. Spouses and kids often take second place. Women face extra questions: “Who will handle the household? Who watches the children?” Jobs can suffer too. Some lose positions or see businesses decline. Marriages sometimes end. Before announcing, ask: Are your goals worth these risks?
Money is another silent hurdle. You don’t need wealth to start, but fundraising never stops. Christensen advises beginning with your Christmas card list. Send personal notes asking for help without naming small amounts. Keep options open for bigger gifts. Asking boldly feels awkward at first, but it’s essential.
The book highlights gender differences, too. Men often benefit from traditional views of leadership. Women draw media curiosity and connect deeply on issues like education, health care, and family support. Yet both must build thick skin for attacks and scrutiny.
Christensen warns that running puts you in a fishbowl. You smile through exhaustion, attend endless events, and handle rejection. Volunteers do grunt work, stuffing envelopes, placing signs, but you lead it all.
If the idea still excites you after weighing these realities, you might be ready. GONNA RUN doesn’t sugarcoat the demands. It helps you decide honestly. The book reminds us: The real test isn’t winning votes, it’s choosing to step into the arena at all.
Frustrated with leaders? Read this guide first. It prepares you for the decision no one talks about enough.