Since 1999, Special Victims Unit detective Olivia Benson has been one of the fiercest and most feared women on television. With her determination to solve every case, her badass street-skills, and her overwhelming compassion, there is no doubt as to why Olivia Benson has become my favorite part of every "Law and Order: SVU" marathon. Each and every episode continues to make me want to dive into the dramatic and dangerous life of fighting crime and saving the world, one victim at a time. Though I may not exactly be able to handle exactly what it takes to be a Special Victims Unit Detective, I will just have to settle with channeling my inner Olivia Benson whenever I sense danger may be near. Hey, it can never hurt to be too cautious. Here are a few reasons as to why Olivia Benson is my spirit animal and most certainly should be yours too.

She is not afraid to tell anyone how it is—especially the bad guys. There is something special about seeing Benson crack the case and knowing that the dirtbag she suspected from the start will spend the rest of his or her miserable life rotting in prison.

She’s ferociously independent. She can stand alone and is not afraid to take on any challenge or case herself. And we all know she won’t rest until it is solved.

When Benson says no, she means no. You might as well just walk away now, because once this detective has her mind made up, there is no going back.

She struggles. Being an SVU detective is a dark and twisty profession, forcing her to constantly question herself and the life she is surrounded by. Which of course only makes us love her more, because it showcases how truly openhearted and loving she is; not even the strongest of detectives can go through life without doubting themselves.

Even she knows that sometimes, you just need a beer. And when Benson is ready for hers, I suggest you sit down, shut up, and let the woman enjoy her dang beer.

She is oh-so-very wise. The philosophical Benson has seen it all and thus knows just what to say and when to say it.

Not to mention how adorable she and Elliot Stabler are—especially when undercover

She also knows it’s important to separate business and pleasure. Dating is always hard, but dating someone in your department makes everything a tad bit more difficult.

And how about the fact that Taylor Swift has named one of her cats "Olivia Benson?" Because, if that’s not freaking purrrfect, I don’t know what is.