Look, I am an intolerant smart-ass, and frankly, that's my second-best superpower.

That sounds horrible, I know, like one minute we’re bff’s, and then, I’ll be breathing fire over polarizing politics the next. And sure, I do have some views that are non-negotiable like my love of pineapple and ham on pizza, rest assured we’re not talking about politics.

In fact, I wish the word "intolerant" wasn't always used to describe something profoundly negative in politics. Frankly, if political movements didn’t already hijack the word, I'd wear it like a badge of honor. But, since it is (hijacked), and for clarity's sake, I'm tapping into its lesser-known definition:

"Intolerant (adj): (2) unable or unwilling to tolerate or endure."

Peel away its political overtones, and 'intolerant' morphs into a champion for boundaries, not a hater of people.

Intolerant people value boundaries.

Boundaries, dear reader, are the epitome of good manners.

We need boundaries for our quality of life (read: sanity).

Boundaries are the superhero cape that shields you from being devoured by people who rank their own feelings, desires, and interests over yours (a natural instinct, but not ideal).

Trust me. I know.

Boundaries boldly oppose. They etch a line in the sand, take a stance, shake their fist, declare a position–that, by its very existence will offend some people. And that, my friend, is exactly the point:

The significant other who orders you to spend time with their family during the holidays, knowing you're on the receiving end of snide remarks.

The 'friend' you confided in, who spins your secrets into juicy gossip tidbits behind your back.

The colleague who moonlights as your friend while secretly sabotaging your business.

The date rushing you into intimacy before you're ready.

The authority figure dropping names of powerful friends to bully you.

Boundaries say, no, and no, is threatening. 

Think about it.

And while I'm the biggest supporter of second chances, redemption, and underdogs–because seriously, who doesn't love underdogs?

But even underdogs have limits.

And it's YOUR right to decide yours.

Simple as that.

While your boundaries will always be tested, if you constantly prioritize the wants and whims of those who put themselves first, what kind of life are YOU left with?

Perhaps it's time for self-check.

Because the more intolerant of shitty behavior you become, the less of it you'll get.