Activate the S.O.M.E of Awesome: Why Election Time Calls for Strength, Momentum, and Optimism

Election time is here, and with it comes the electric energy of people assessing candidates, policies, and possibilities. Voting is more than a choice; it’s an act of belief and hope in what’s possible. Many of you have already activated the “A.W.E.” in Activate the Awesome by voting—Assessing, Waking up to your values, and Engaging in the democratic process. But what comes next once we’ve dropped our ballots in the box or pressed “submit” on the screen?

Now that the vote is cast, it’s time to tap into the following elements of the A.W.E.S.O.M.E. framework: Strengthen self-belief, Optimize potential, Maximize momentum, and Energize the future. Whether the results align with your choice or challenge your convictions, now is the moment to Activate the Some of Awesome by focusing on what we can influence: our mindset, actions, and optimism for the future.

Strengthening Self-Belief

In a time when polarization can feel overwhelming, belief in our collective strength is more important than ever. Studies show that communities with high civic engagement report stronger social ties and resilience, especially during challenging periods. In fact, according to a 2022 Pew Research survey, over 60% of Americans believe that communities working together can address significant issues more effectively than government alone (Pew Research Center, 2022). Strengthening our self-belief, individually and collectively prepares us to stay engaged beyond Election Day, committed to the causes that matter most. 

Optimizing Potential by Looking Beyond Differences

Election results often reveal differences in perspective, even among those closest to us: family members, friends, spouses, and colleagues. You may not agree with the outcome or the choices of those around you. This is where we need to Activate the Awesome by looking beyond these differences. Our task is to see beyond votes and remember the relationships, values, and goals that unite us.

Optimizing our potential as a community means recognizing that diversity of thought can be a source of strength, not division. Likewise, our approach should be one of curiosity and understanding for those who chose not to vote or voted differently. Many factors influence how (or if) people vote, from personal beliefs to feelings of frustration with the process. Now more than ever, we can choose empathy over division. Embracing these differences and staying connected reflects the essence of activating the awesome. 

Maximizing Momentum

Momentum is a powerful force in times of uncertainty. We’ve seen it during crises; when disaster strikes, communities come together, setting differences aside. The COVID-19 pandemic showed that Americans can have incredible resilience and cooperation, even in challenging circumstances. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau reveals that neighborhood volunteering and mutual aid efforts surged during the pandemic. Nearly 51% of people over age 16 informally helped neighbors and 23% (or 60.7 million people) formally volunteered through an organization. We have proof that when times are tough, we rise to meet the challenges. 

Energizing the Future

The world is watching and waiting for America’s next chapter. As a legal immigrant, I can’t cast a vote. I stand on the sidelines, watching the weight of the moment unfold. Like countless others, I’m invested in the outcome, but more importantly, in what comes after. That’s where true transformation lies. We all have the chance to energize the future by continuing to engage, remaining informed, and championing the principles we stand for.

Election results may guide the country’s path, but our actions sustain its spirit. No matter the outcome or who stands beside you, now is the time to Activate the Some of Awesome by staying strong, optimistic, and united. Differences may test us, but our potential is boundless, and our resilience is proven. Let’s harness that awesome energy — for today and every day that follows.