It's no secret that everyone is excited for "Finding Dory" to finally be released into theaters. We've all been waiting for this moment for years --literally. That being said, there's not doubt that Dory was definitely the best character in "Finding Nemo." She was funny, caring, and lovable. Right from the moment, she was introduced in the movie she found her way into our hearts. In fact, we have a lot to thank Dory for. Not only did she make us laugh so hard our stomachs hurt, but she also taught us some pretty important life lessons, including:

1. It's okay to be forgetful sometimes

Alright, so Dory is forgetful almost all of the time, but she teaches us it's okay if you forget something once in a while. The point here is that nobody is perfect. We all have our flaws, but our friends are those who see those flaws and still love us anyways.

2. Home doesn't necessarily refer to a place, it can refer to a person as well

Whether it's your family, your significant other or your best friends, there are some people in life who make you feel warm and comforted. Those people become your home. Like they say, a house isn't necessarily a home. The people that support you and keep you safe are home.

3. You're never too old for a good story

Whether it be a book, a magazine, or someone telling you a story, the little kid in us never fails to get excited. Stories take us to magical places and allow us to escape reality for a little while. They let us become whatever it is that we want to be.

4. Always stand up for yourself

Okay, so Dory stood up for herself a little too aggressively. But she let us know that when others hurt you, it's okay to let them know how you feel. Because your emotions are important too.

5. Try to stay positive

Even when life has you down, try to tell yourself that things will get better. And it never hurts to comfort a friend with this when they're down too. Rather than seeing the ocean (or glass) half-empty, try to look at it as half-full.

6. Work hard, but play hard too

Sometimes it's okay to completely let loose and have some fun. We all have a bit of little kid left in us, so why not put that to good use? (Just make sure you don't get stung by a jellyfish in the process).

7. Always be friendly

It never hurts to smile at people when you walk by them, or to offer help to those who look like they could use it. You could make a huge difference in someone's day just with a simple little act of kindness.

8. Don't forget to take care of yourself

Sometimes we get so caught up in pleasing others that we forget to take 5 minutes for ourselves. If you find yourself getting overwhelmed, try taking a deep breath and taking a step back for a minute. You are important too.

9. Never forget to tell your loved ones how you feel about them

In our hectic day-to-day lives, we don't always remember to tell those around us just how much they mean to us. Try taking a couple minutes out of every day to make sure you express your gratitude for your loved ones.

10. Be open to trying new things

Dory taught us that every new skill takes some time and effort to master. Whether it be speaking a different language (such as whale), to learning how to surf, to everything in between, don't get discouraged if you don't succeed right at the beginning.

11. Always be yourself

Never be anything other than yourself. Know that you are amazing just the way that you are, quirks and all. Don't ever think that you need to change yourself for anyone.

Dory has certainly taught us a lot already, and I can't wait to see the new life lessons that she will teach us in "Finding Dory!"