About this quote

Setting firm boundaries sometimes means using humor as a shield. People often demand a level of politeness or compliance that you simply do not have the energy to give. Instead of faking a warm smile, showing a bit of sharp edge keeps pushy people at a distance. It is about reclaiming your terms of engagement. How much energy do you waste trying to please people who do not actually matter to your day?

When to use it

• When a lazy coworker dumps their Friday afternoon paperwork on your desk and expects you to happily bail them out.
• When an intrusive relative at a family dinner corners you with inappropriate questions about your personal savings.
• When a pushy salesperson at the car dealership refuses to take a polite 'no' for an answer on an overpriced upgrade.