Was it worth it?

On this day 17 years ago, I decided to stand for election; 15 years ago today, I was selected as the Conservative candidate for Wycombe at my first attempt. Much has happened. Was it worth it?

In 2007, I was so infuriated by politics and politicians, I asked what I could do. I decided I could emigrate, moan fruitlessly or stand for election to the Commons.

With nowhere worth emigrating to and no desire to be bitter, I decided to seek election, with no prior experience or connections. I wanted to be sure I could count on at least one vote in Parliament. It was not a small decision: it meant abandoning my plans to found a software company in the City, amongst other things.

Was it worth it?

Two years later to the day, at my first attempt, I was selected as the Conservative candidate for Wycombe. Fifteen years on, was it worth it?