SLIDESHOW

8 Ways to Survive Congress: A Newcomers Guide to Capitol Hill

Current lawmakers offer advice for dealing with the pressures and frustrations of the job.

By Susan Davis, Ben Terris and Annelise Russell

Updated: May 29, 2013 | 10:52 p.m.
December 6, 2010 | 6:27 p.m.

Newly elected members of the 112th Congress pose for a class photo on the steps of the Capitol on November 19.   (Mark Wilson/Getty Images)

Sometimes it's wise to take a little advice.

And when you're headed to Congress for the first time, sometimes it's wise to take more than just a little advice.

Although the day-to-day routine doesn't change much on Capitol Hill, figuring out how to thrive in the Beltway pressure cooker can be quite the task.

But fear not.

National Journal has your guide to making it through your congressional career. We have solicited the advice of current and former members of Congress on the keys to success in Washington.

Click below for eight tips on how to navigate your early days in Congress.

Tips for Success in Congress

<b>1. WATCH YOUR MOUTH</b> <b>2. FIND YOUR SWEET SPOT</b> <b>3. KNOW WHAT YOU'RE GETTING INTO</b> <b>4. COUNT TO THREE</b> <b>5. HIRE A GOOD STAFF</b> <b>6. DON'T THINK IT WILL BE PRETTY</b> <b>7. SMELL THE FLOWERS</b> <b>8. STAY REAL</b> <b>THE FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2010</b>

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