Frank is drinking margaritas on a cruise ship somewhere out there, so I'm flying solo this week and perhaps next.

I've been hanging around politics for some 33 years, either observing as a reporter or editor or participating as a campaign manager, governor's staffer or hired gun.

I hope I've learned a thing or two along the way. I've definitely learned that I would make a lousy politician. I'm not a very good manager or administrator, and I honestly don't enjoy the spotlight. I'm also too wishy-washy on a lot of issues because I see both sides too clearly, probably thanks to my journalism training.

Over the years I've developed a healthy respect for those willing to put their names on a ballot to be accepted or rejected by their peers. Politics can be as tough as any back-alley brawl.

So I want to share my top 10 tips for political survival:

1. Stay humble and teachable. Don't ever get the idea that you're invincible. Over and over, locally and nationally, we've seen examples of politicians so bloated with self-importance that they can do no wrong. If you ever start feeling you can get away with most anything, remember this: You're one tiny act away from destroying your political career and perhaps your family and life.

2. Don't take negative press personally. A few nasty news media hits make you feel like everyone is looking at you, everyone is against you. They're not. Your world really isn't falling apart. You'd be amazed at the number of people who haven't seen the press reports, don't believe them or don't care. Your family, friends and neighbors still love you. Negative press comes with the territory. Put it behind you and go on.

3. Remember: Politics is a game. It's not really a game. It's serious stuff — taxes, health care, the death penalty and war. Its momentous decisions affect millions of people. But if you don't maintain a certain gamelike mentality, it will drive you crazy and eat you alive. You can't obsess and worry and fret. You win some and lose some. You do your best and go on.

4. Pick a few priorities and focus on them. Don't spread yourself too thin. Civic-minded people often want to right every wrong and fight every evil. You can't do it all, and you won't be effective if you try. Be generally knowledgeable, but choose your targets. Specialize in a few areas.

5. Once you've made a decision, don't look back. By the time most decisions reach your level, they are very close and very difficult, with strong arguments on both sides. But you have to make a decision and then be firm, be resolute. Fight for your position and make a strong case. Acknowledge differing opinions, but don't waver.