I am not ashamed to admit one of my biggest role models is a fictional character. Leslie Knope has had her ups and downs like all of us, but she managed to get through it with a smile on her face and always ended up with waffles and victory. Obviously, she must be doing something right. Though it's been over a year since "Parks and Recreation" finished, these are some things I will carry with me for life.
1. She has her priorities straight.
Friends, family, and food -- that's all that matters...and also work if you have the time.
2. She wasn't afraid to stand up for herself and tell it like it is.
3. She let us know it's OK to be vulnerable.
4. She could turn anything into a positive.
It's like she said: "Sometimes painful things can teach us lessons we didn't think we needed to know."
5. She never doubted her self-worth.
We all have to remember that we're smart, kind, beautiful, rainbow infused space unicorns.
6. She never let anyone else forget their worth either.
The best way to feel good about yourself is to make others feel good about themselves because then you know you're making a difference.
7. She always took pride in her work.
Whether she was building a park, running for city council, or simply entrapping a raccoon she simply had to be the best at it. "If I seem too passionate, it's because I care. If I come on too strong, it's because I feel strongly. And if I push too hard, it's because things aren't moving fast enough."
8. No dream was ever too big for her to accomplish.
9. She always stuck behind her principles.
Even if it was just her decision to hate salad.
10. She is the most determined person since...probably the beginning of time.
11. She taught me it doesn't matter who you are or what you do as long as you don't lose yourself along the way.
After everything, Leslie still managed to be her goofy self.
