Since the movie premiere of Me Before You, there has been a swarm of activity regarding the novel it is primarily based on. Wanting to understand more, I requested the book from my library and patiently waited for it to arrive. After finishing just a couple days ago, I have realized the many lessons I can take away from the book and apply to my everyday life.

1. Being different is perfectly okay.

From the second I was introduced to Louisa as a main character, I fell in love with her quirky, exuberant personality. Louisa is comfortable in her own skin, particularly evident through her outrageous wardrobe, and brushed off the negative comments about any ensemble. From this character trait, I learned that being different, through clothes or personality, is okay. Regardless of what anyone may say, if you are confident in yourself, you will be successful.

2. Small towns are the best, but only for a while.

The quaint English town in which the story takes place parallels many traits of my own hometown. There isn’t always much to do, but everyone knows everyone and what may be happening in their life at a point in time. Will often encourages Louisa to get out of her comfort zone and explore the world beyond the borders of her town, which she is extremely reluctant to do. Her apprehension mirrors my own when I left home for college the first time. I can honestly say that I have learned so much more from living somewhere new, but also love coming back to my small town roots each summer to see how it is growing and improving.

3. Family is everything.

Louisa’s family is composed of very vivid characters, as the reader learns their personality, interests, and struggles throughout the novel. While her parents are experiencing extreme financial hardship for the majority of the story, they still express their love to each other rather than frustration. Louisa also begins to get closer with her sister Treena, and the two form a strong bond of trust in each other, especially as Louisa’s life takes many challenging turns. From these family interactions, I have learned to express love rather than hate when I am personally struggling, and the importance of my own family’s presence throughout my entire life.

4. Adventure is out there.

Louisa is amazed when she is able to travel on several instances throughout the novel, especially since this is her first time being far from her typical home. She tries many activities never previously thought of, like scuba diving and new foods. The exhilaration Louisa feels throughout these activities is highly similar to my own awe as I traveled to Mexico this past year. There is so much the world has to offer beyond the comfort of your front door, and much like Louisa, I cannot wait to travel to see more opportunities throughout my lifetime.

5. Love can find you at the most unexpected times.

Louisa surprises even herself when she is able to admit her new feelings for Will rather than her current and steady boyfriend. As the pair gets closer and Louisa’s previous relationship fades out of the picture, feelings intensify, particularly by the end of the novel. From Louisa and Will, I have learned that love will find you when you are least expecting it, and that the best relationships are often those worth waiting for. A pair should be able to bring out the best in each other, much as the witty banter between Louisa and Will provides.

While Me Before You definitely played upon my emotions, it also left a lasting impact in my mind and heart. I can only hope the movie is just as incredible.