If your childhood was anything like mine, you grew up watching Disney movies on VHS (and later continued watching them on DVD). I loved sitting down on the couch with a freshly popped bowl of popcorn and watching "The Little Mermaid" or "Hercules." I was amused by the fun storytelling and the quirky characters Disney created, but that wasn't all I took away from my viewing experience. Without intending to, I learned some valuable life lessons that I hope to one day pass onto my children. Here are some of the best lessons that I learned.

1. Women don't always need men to save them.

The stereotypical Disney woman is portrayed as a damsel in distress who needs a big, strong man to save the day (and, apparently, sweep her off her feet that same day so they can ride off into the sunset together). However, Mulan, who was clearly tired of being limited by her gender, decided to be brave and take matters into her own hands. Although she was not the best or the strongest at first, she worked hard, took herself seriously, and never gave up. She proved to me that women can — and should — learn to take care of themselves. Women are strong, independent, and totally capable of greatness all on their own.

2. True beauty has nothing to do with looks.

Although it can be argued that "Beauty and the Beast" may be depicting Stockholm Syndrome, the movie has a strong moral: beauty comes from the inside out. When we focus more on how we look than how we treat people, we are not the best versions of ourselves. We become conceited/insecure/obsessed with modifying our outward appearances as a means of securing romance, but we fail to realize that people love us for what's in our hearts. I would take a beautiful heart over a beautiful body any day.

Also, if people like Gaston come into your life, use this little trick to get rid of them.

It doesn't matter if your dad annoys you sometimes or if your younger sister won't stop talking during a movie. At the end of the day, we are all so blessed to have family* that loves us. Family will always be there, so cherish the moments you spend with them. Remember, ohana means family and family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.'

*Family does not have to be connected by blood.

4. Sometimes in life, you just have to keep on going.

Life can get you down sometimes, and if you let it, it can swallow you whole. However, you can't let every breaking wave wash you away. When the going gets tough, remember that everyone has hard times. Let yourself feel sad, angry, or scared, but don't stop living your life because of it. Making the decision to be strong and carry on is the catalyst for positive change.

To all those who feel like you can't handle it, take it one day at a time. You can do this. I believe in you.