Behavioral science tells us that people are more likely to follow through on their intentions when they make a public or private commitment. These commitment devices—a concept explored in Richard Thaler’s Nudge—create accountability and strengthen resolve, making them a powerful tool in political campaigns. In the context of voter registration, commitment devices can be used to nudge supporters toward action. By encouraging people to declare their intention to register or vote, campaigns can inspire higher participation and foster a stronger connection with voters.

Sun Tzu, the ancient Chinese military strategist, famously wrote, “If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles.” In politics, the battlefield isn’t just your opponent—it’s also the landscape of public opinion, voter priorities, and your own strengths and weaknesses. Knowing yourself as a candidate is the foundation of any successful campaign. Without this critical self-awareness, even the best strategies and messages can fall flat. Let’s explore why self-evaluation is essential and how embracing Sun Tzu’s wisdom can guide you toward becoming the most authentic, effective version of yourself.

Defaults are one of the most powerful tools in behavioral science, as they leverage human inertia to encourage specific behaviors. Whether it’s setting recurring donations as the default or automatically enrolling voters in notifications, defaults can significantly increase participation and engagement. However, as Richard Thaler emphasizes in Nudge, “A nudge must be transparent and never misleading. The goal is to help people, not exploit them.” In this post, we’ll explore how to ethically apply defaults in political campaigns to maximize impact while maintaining trust and autonomy.

Self-awareness is critical for success, but it’s only part of the equation. Overconfidence—thinking you have all the answers or underestimating your opponent—can be just as dangerous as being unprepared. Sun Tzu warned, “If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat.” In politics, victory isn’t just about understanding your strengths; it’s about recognizing the full landscape, including your opponent, your voters, and the challenges ahead.

In politics, words hold power—but so does silence. While speaking confidently can inspire action and convey leadership, knowing when to listen can be just as impactful. Striking the right balance between the two is essential for building trust, understanding voter priorities, and making sound decisions. As Sun Tzu said, “He will conquer who has learned the artifice of deviation.” Sometimes, the smartest move is to hold back, observe, and listen, rather than rushing to fill the silence.

What if the key to victory isn’t one big moment but a series of small, intentional wins? Zig Ziglar once said, “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” In the high-pressure world of political campaigns, it’s easy to focus on the big picture—the grand rallies, the headline-grabbing ads, or the major fundraising goals. But more often than not, success comes from the consistent accumulation of small victories.

Social norms—the unspoken rules that guide how people behave—are among the most powerful influences on human decision-making. In politics, leveraging social norms can nudge people toward positive behaviors like voting, volunteering, or donating to a campaign. When people see that others in their community are taking action, they’re more likely to follow suit. As Richard Thaler writes in Nudge, “Humans are easily influenced by the behavior of others. Highlighting social norms can gently steer people toward better decisions.” By framing political participation as the norm, campaigns can inspire collective action and build momentum.

In the fast-paced world of politics, it’s easy to get caught up in the pressure to please every audience or adapt to shifting trends. However, the most successful campaigns are rooted in authenticity, where the candidate’s personal values align seamlessly with their message. Sun Tzu reminds us, “The line between disorder and order lies in logistics.” In politics, that “logistics” is your ability to align your core beliefs with your communication strategy. This alignment creates clarity, builds trust, and inspires action.

Tough times don’t last, but tough leaders do. What’s your strategy for leading through the storm? Zig Ziglar said it best: “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.” In politics, as in life, it’s not the obstacles you face but how you respond to them that defines your success. Campaigns are unpredictable, and adversity is inevitable. But the leaders who meet challenges with positivity and resolve inspire confidence—not just from their teams, but from voters as well.

Civic engagement is the foundation of a thriving democracy. From voting to volunteering to participating in local decision-making, engaged citizens build stronger communities and hold leaders accountable. Behavioral nudges, as Richard Thaler explores in Nudge, offer powerful tools to foster a culture of engagement that lasts far beyond a single election cycle. By making civic participation accessible, rewarding, and habitual, campaigns and policymakers can inspire lasting change that strengthens democracy and empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities.