Many people have watched Disney princess movies since they were little. Snow White was the first and was a part of our grandparents' generation and our generation had some pretty awesome princesses ourselves (aka Ariel, Jasmine, Belle, Mulan, etc). They taught us a lot so here are the top lessons each Disney princess taught her viewers.
Cinderella – taking a chance and breaking rules can change your life for the better. Cinderella had no idea how much her life would change by going to the ball but it ended up making her life a thousand times better. Take a chance on something or someone. It might be just what you need to make you happier.
Sleeping Beauty – even fairy godmothers can’t fix everything. Some things just take time. Patience isn’t everyone’s virtue, especially in times of stress or uncertainty. Sometimes all you can do is wait. Also waiting on a fairy godmother may cause you to lose some great opportunities so be your own advocate and cheerleader!
Ariel –your parents are just trying to protect you. Let’s be honest, we can all look back at something we fought with our parents at when we were 16 (but probably not about human-mermaid relationship) and see that they were right about it. Even if we didn’t (or still don’t) want to admit they were right, we know that they had our best interest and mind. Maybe they do know what they’re talking about after all.
Jasmine – explore what’s outside of your walls. Jasmine lived her whole life inside of the palace walls, unaware of all the adventures and memories waiting for her after she escaped them. Don’t let yourself be limited by the walls you or others have put up. Climb over them and explore everything the world has to offer.
Pocahontas – lean about/talk to people who aren’t like you. Similar to Jasmine, what you know isn’t the end all be all. Learn about the people and cultures around you. You’ll learn so much about the world around you and become a more rounded person.
Mulan – women can do anything men can do. “Anything you can do, I can do better.” Women have to prove themselves to the guys and Mulan proved that we girls can prove ourselves. The United States National Women’s Soccer team is now fighting to show that they should be treated like the men’s team. #girlpower
Rapunzel – everyone has a dream but not everyone will pursue it. Pursuing your true dreams can take a lot of courage and it seems like a lot of people are willing to settle for less. Granted, not everyone can be the next Michael Jackson or Robin Williams, but you never know unless you try. Maybe your dream is as simple as having your own vegetable garden or maybe you want to be extreme and try to be the first person on Mars. The most important thing is to try; success is just an added bonus.
Tiana – hard work pays off and people notice your work ethic. Working hard all the time can be exhausting, not to mention time-consuming. Doing your best will show others your perseverance and determination and make you seem like a great worker. People want to hire hard workers and it can get you scholarships and awards. Hard work pays off in the end as Tiana found out.
Merida – you don’t need a man. Being in a relationship won’t solve your problems, as some other Disney movies may insinuate. Being independent is a great skill and can teach you a lot about yourself. Although it can be nice having a significant other, not having one is just as important.
Anna/Elsa – family is important. Families are unique and no one’s is quite the same even though we all have some similar family members. Anna and Elsa’s sisterhood is unmatched in any other Disney movie and taught people around the world the power of love doesn’t have to be in relation to a love interest. Sometimes the love you need comes from your family. Family isn’t limited to those who have the same blood as you; your friends can be like family and love and support you just like your blood family.
