If you haven’t already, you need to watch "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" on Netflix. Not only is it hilariously written by Tina Fey, but it also teaches invaluable life lessons that relate to the basic concepts of self acceptance and identity. Here are a few life lessons that I found important through watching the first season of the Netflix original series "Unbreakable."
1. “I’m not really here.” While trapped in the bunker, Kimmy uses this phrase as her mantra to redirect her negative feelings associated with being trapped underground. I like to use this example at work when I have more work than I can handle and my stress level is above the acceptable limit for my brain. I walk down the hall, close my eyes, and repeat in my mind, “I am not really here” until I have enough motivation to try and finish everything I can before my shift ends. The visual imagery is relaxing and reminds me that this stress will soon pass.
2. “Just take it 10 seconds at a time.” Kimmy explains that if you are in a stressful or unpleasant experience, set your goal to get through the next 10 seconds. If you can get through 10 seconds at a time, you will eventually finish the task. I love this because you are able to set small goals that help you feel accomplished, as well as not become overwhelmed by the big picture. I tend to use this when I go running; I tell myself to just run at this speed for 10 more seconds and then I am eventually able to run three miles in a reasonable amount of time. There are so many situations you can relate this concept to.
3. “2090 called. You’re dead and you wasted your time on Earth.” I find this to be inspirational toward how I decide to spend my time every day. Being productive is something that I live on; friends constantly remind me that I cannot sit still for more than five minutes. I am afraid of living a life that didn’t make a difference. So, be like Kimmy and at least try to make something of yourself, mainly so that when 2090 calls, it will say “well done” and maybe your head will be carved into Mount Rushmore or something.
4. “A female dog? As in the one that makes puppies? Aw! Nice compliment!” I like to think of this quote as taking what others say about you with a grain of salt. Everybody is entitled to their own opinion of you, so allow them to have their own opinion and move on with your life. Just keep doing what you do best, aka yourself, and let what others say not phase you. Or even better, continue to respect the person that thinks poorly of you and see what happens. There’s good in everyone, I promise.
5. “Be you. Be what you want. And then become unbreakable.” This quote is fun because it relates to the entire series. Being you is something that no one else is good at except you. Once you are able to accept yourself, you will be able to truly live your life and do incredible things.
