charms

Don't take anyone's word on it. Don't let a party tell you how to think. Instead of trying to work out your position on every issue, start thinking about principles. What is government's role in society? Where should the balance lie between freedom and social well-being? What kind of character traits do you look for in politicians?

Issues, political parties, and politicians will sway in the breeze, but your principles will remain the same. If you define yourself by a party affiliation, you'll find yourself defending policies you disagree with and attacking policies you agree with. Neither party is right all the time, both are corrupt most of the time. Separate rhetoric and reality.

Lastly, educate yourself. Don't listen to partisan sources. They may pretend to inform you, but they really want to conform you. Dig deep, look deeper, and always follow the money.