I have recently started watching Gilmore Girls on Netflix, and I can say that it has quickly become one of my favorites. From Lorelai’s sass, to Emily’s attitude and Rory’s story, Gilmore Girls is a show that anyone can learn a lot from. As I begin season six of the series, here are five lessons I have learned through Gilmore Girls so far:

1. Don’t be afraid to be your own person

Lorelai grew up in Emily and Richard’s house where she was expected to behave in a certain manner – which all came crashing down when Lorelai got pregnant with Rory at 16. However, the box her parents try to fit her in – she continues to do what is best for her, and encourages Rory to do the same thing, has never fazed Lorelai. This theme is shown in Lane as well – we watch throughout the series as Lane directly defies her strict mother in order to be her own person.

2. Do what makes your heart happy

Lorelai and Rory become involved in numerous relationships that aren’t pleasing to everyone, however, they know that they are happy with these people. Rory also chose this path when she selected Yale as her intended university rather than Harvard. Both Gilmore girls knew what was best for them, and ran with it.

3. Always forgive

Throughout the series we see almost every character quarrel with another, however, there is always forgiveness in the end. Gilmore Girls proves that friends and family are what matter the most – like the opening song says, “If you need me to be with you, I will follow where you lead.”

4. Follow your dreams

The entire series is filled with this underlying theme – Rory dreams of being a journalist, Lorelai and Sookie dream of opening their own inn, Lane wants to be in a rock band as a drummer. Each character takes us down a unique path as they shoot for their goals.

5. It’s okay to not be strong all of the time

In a handful of episodes, we see each individual breakdown over on goings in their lives. Though we feel for these characters, we also can see them overcoming their challenges; whether they may be financial, relationship-based, feuds or scholastic.

If you haven’t watched Gilmore Girls yet, I highly recommend it. If you have, you can relate to the above points.