Santa brought me something very important this year. Sitting by my stocking was Amy Poehler’s new book Yes Please. I look up to Amy Poehler for countless reasons, and this article only scratches the surface. I can’t emphasize how much I’ve learned from Amy Poehler through this book. You should seriously read it; it’s incredible.

It’s okay to be silly. 

Thank goodness for SNL. I think it’s so important that people (girls especially) understand that it’s okay to be goofy and carefree! It’s healthy to let loose and relax, and it’s even more important that you surround yourself with people who allow you to do this. Amy Poehler exudes silliness in everything that she does, but she does it in a powerful way. Her success proves that you can be who you are and have fun while doing it. Take a deep breath, and don’t forget to laugh. All the time. 

Make sure that you learn from other people.

Amy Poehler said: “As you navigate through the rest of your life, be open to collaboration. Other people and other people's ideas are often better than your own. Find a group of people who challenge and inspire you, spend a lot of time with them, and it will change your life.” The quote says it all! Always learn things in life, but the most important thing is surround yourself with incredible people who are different from you and who challenge you. Choose these people wisely and never waste any part of your life. 

Choose your words wisely.

Amy Poehler talks about how important it is to keep your mind open to new ideas and to know when to stay quiet about things. This is especially important when you have limited knowledge about a topic. Be careful about the things that you say and to whom you say them. Words matter. 

Commit to who you are! 

Most importantly, Amy Poehler is confident in who she is. This is an extremely difficult lesson to learn, but it’s the most important. As cheesy as it sounds, it’s crucial to discover who you are and to run with it. Use your talents and find out what makes you happy! Live the best life possible for yourself.