I'm not here to make friends

I really hate that phrase. To start off with, I have to admit that I watch an insanely large amount of reality television: The Voice, Masterchef, Hell's Kitchen, America's Next Top Model...I really love them. However, every time a person steps foot on a reality TV show and announces that they're not there to make friends, I cringe. Every person who says this will, at some point in the competition, cause unnecessary drama. What is it about simple competition that brings out the worst in people? How have we managed to teach the younger generations that being competitive is the same as being an asshole? One of the places I have seen this the most often in my own life is in the audition/callback room at the theatre. It occurs quite often that someone who is one of your best friends or even relatives will turn nasty at the sight of your face auditioning for the same part as they are. The second most common occurrence is as friends sit around the table playing a game. I've literally seen people scream and get mean with people they love over Apples to Apples or even charades. Personally, I've never understood the cutthroat nature of competition. As far as I know, there is no rule that says that you cannot be kind to others while simultaneously trying to kick their ass. In fact most competitive opportunities are supposed to be fun or something that you love. If you're stepping onto the set of Masterchef, it is because you have great passion and love for cooking. When you sit down to play Settlers of Catan, it's supposed to be a GAME. Seriously, folks, stop the hate and enjoy your life. Have fun, work hard, play intensely, and encourage everyone around you to do the same.