“Let’s start a company”

That’s how it begins, right? I love hearing about the different motivations people have when they go all-in on an idea.

“I can do it better”

“People need this”

What’s my motivation? Still coming up with a suitable answer for Medium, but for now let’s just say I’m meant for more than politics and the corporate climb.

Sure, I have a passion for American democracy and political process. I’ve been involved in it since my sophomore year at College Park. You could say I fall into the political nerd category of CSPAN watchers and debate analyzers.

Yet, I have an insatiable curiosity for life outside our D.C. bubble. And the more I scratch that itch — that creative thorn in my side — the deeper I want to go.

But how do I find the balance between the safe choice and the risky one? What does the intersection of hobby and passion look like?

I‘m not there yet. I still feel that jolt of energy every time I walk into the Capitol building. I get goosebumps in Hearing rooms. And yeah, I still get starstruck when I pass A-list Members in the halls.

So, why would I walk away from the comfort zone?

Why does anyone?