I recently binged watched "Parks and Recreation" on Netflix. From the humor to the story lines to the loveable characters (and the characters you love to hate), "Parks and Rec" quickly became one of my favorite TV shows. While watching, I was able to pick up on some wonderful lessons that I would like to share with you.

1. Treat Yo Self

Every year, Tom and Donna would dedicate a special day where they solely focused on their selves. They would buy and do whatever they wanted. They called this day "Treat Yo Self." I think this a great mentality to have. We can so easily be caught up in hustle and bustle or our lives, that we forget to do something special for ourselves. So, try and take the time to do something just for you every now and then.

2. You Can Eat Breakfast Food Anytime of the Day

The Parks and Rec department, especially Leslie and Ron, were known for loving their breakfast food. J.J's Diner was their favorite restaurant to eat at no matter what time of day or situation. You can eat breakfast for lunch or dinner, or a midnight snack. It can be a celebratory meal or a solemn one. But, breakfast food is the best food, and should be eaten whenever you want to.

3. Be Passionate

I think everyone can take a note out of Leslie Knope's book. Her passion and dedication to her work made her truly inspiring. She never gave up on what she believed in and fought until she had her way, which was always the right way from finally building her park out of the pit or preserving the piece of land in Pawnee and creating a National Park. If everyone had even half the amount of passion as Leslie, I think the world would be a better, happier place.

4. Try, Try Again

Throughout the show, Tom had many failed business ventures, along with not always the most reliable business partners. But, in the end, he finally found success. He never gave up. Even when his restaurants went under, Tom was still able to find success by writing a book discussing his failures. Tom never stopped trying and never let his failures stop him from finally achieving the success he deserved. Tom really grew as a character throughout the series. As he matured, his business ventures became more realistic and profitable. I think anyone should have Tom's mentality to keep on trying and never give up on dreams.

5. Think About Your Future

Ben's proposal to Leslie is definitely up there for one of the best TV proposals. And there's even a lesson that can be learned from it--to think about your future. Think about what you wan to do with your life, but also who you want to do everything with. Don't get caught up in the moment after getting, for example, an amazing new job offer. Think about it and think about 5, 10 years down the road and think about what will make you happy then.

6. Be Optimistic, Even in the Hardest of Times

It can hard to be an optimistic person. Somehow Chris always managed to do that though. Even when he was severely depressed, he tried to look at the best in every situation. He was everyone's personal cheerleader and wanted to see them all succeed. His optimism *literally* gave joy to people. So, people should try to look at life with the glass half full more often than seeing it as half empty.

7. No Matter the Distance, True Friends Will Always be There for You

It was a sad episode when Ann moved from Pawnee. Her and Leslie were the best of friends. Even after Ann left though, the two still remained close through phone calls discussing any and everything. They secretly want their kids to get married, and Ann even named her daughter Leslie. So, it can be assumed that their friendship never faltered despite the distance separating them, giving hope to any other long distance best friends out there.

8. A Little Sarcasm Never Hurt Anybody

April always put up a cold, sarcastic exterior. As the show progressed though, it was clear that she was actually a caring human being. She just liked to cover that part of her up. So, it's okay to be sarcastic. But, don't be ashamed to let your soft side come out every once in a while too.

9. Don't be Afraid to be Yourself

Andy was always himself. He never cared what other people thought about him, and he never let others judge him or make him feel bad about himself. Others should follow his example and not be afraid to be themselves at all times.

And, finally...

10. Don't be the Jerry of Your Office

I don't think this one needs any explanation.