The attempted assassination of former President Trump is a stark reminder for all of us to moderate our political speech, end the insults, end the name calling, and drop abusive labels. No more calling those with whom we disagree Nazis or commies, traitors, or cowards. This over-the-topic political venom opens the door to irrational zealots, their extreme threats, and even deadly actions.

I am a Republican state representative in an increasingly “purple,” 50/50 House district. I regularly remind people that my title is “representative,” not sole decision maker for the voters of the greater Rochester area. As a result, I do my best to “vote my district” regardless of who sponsored or supports any specific piece of legislation.

Years ago, I came across a tongue-in-cheek “Manifesto for Moderates” that aligns with my upbringing which has served me well as an elected official. I say tongue-in-cheek because “moderates” are not supposed to be driven by ideological pursuits. That said, playing a role can help moving good legislation forward. These are the three lessons of the “Manifesto for Moderates:”

Fight for incremental improvement:

My father—the first board-certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist in St Clair County (1950), editor of Michigan Medicine journal for five years, and Michigan State Medical Society President (1982), used to say, “always forward, never straight.” It makes zero sense to walk directly into an obstacle or barrier when trying to achieve your goals. Being flexible, knowing when to make needed adjustments, and understanding the need to accommodate potential allies are all ingredients of long-term success. My dad would advise us to “roll with the punches.” You can stand firm and accept the full force of political pushback or “roll” with the needs of those whose support is required for your own success.

Pursue the least-worst outcome:

I’ve read a lot of economist Thomas Sowell’s books and articles over the years. My favorite quote of his is “there are no solutions, only tradeoffs.” Every government policy will result in some unforeseen consequence that, in time, may produce a result worse than problem it was intended to fix. There’s another old saying, “be careful what you wish for.” Humans are imperfect. Our institutions, rules, and objectives will be imperfect. Too often, our desire to help can deliver more harm than good. Sometimes, our only option is to “pursue the least-worse outcome.”

Sometimes the other guy is right:

Author and psychologist Jordan Peterson advises us to “never allow our ideology to prevent us from thinking.” The ability to be right on any given issue is extremely difficult. Nikola Tesla used to say, “when the facts change, so do I.” Being right on any given subject is a very narrow path to walk. Facts do change. We constantly collect more information and increase our understanding of nearly everything. Needs change. Political and social tastes, desires, and tolerances change. Sometimes, we need to “roll with the punches” as we advance “always forward, never straight.”

There is no shame in working with others to achieve incremental change in pursuit of the least-worst outcomes. A rigid adherence to any orthodoxy will only result in future failures. Facts change. New information must inform our new understanding. Heated political rhetoric and demonizing those who see the world through a different political lens cheapen our lives and rob us of communities of well-being.

“Always forward, never straight” is an admirable goal. We all need to give, just a little, to achieve our overall well-being and success.