Ahh, Spongebob Squarepants - a revolutionary television cartoon who took this world by storm. You either grew up with this little sponge by your side or you were grounded every time your parents found out you watched an episode. The thing is though, many people do not realize is that there are extremely important life lessons one can take away after watching Spongebob - lessons that remain important in life no matter your age.
1. Always stick up for yourself.
In a situation involving peer pressure or any circumstances that make you uncomfortable, don't be afraid to speak up. It will help you build character, strength, and happiness.
2. It's okay to be different.
In fact, it's more than okay to be different! Why stick to the status quo? Spongebob lived in a freaking pineapple under the sea. Did you see any others from Bikini Bottom who lived in a pineapple? No. And yet, Spongebob was probably the happiest one down there. So be you and embrace it!!
3. Do something you love.
Find something you are passionate about and give it your all. Don't go through life trudging away at some dead end job that just helps you "get by." Do something meaningful and something that gives you joy. Be as annoyingly happy as Spongebob is behind his grille!
4. Don't try to be someone you're not.
Remember when Spongebob tried watching an instructional video on "How To Be Normal" and it totally changed his entire personality? Yeah, you shouldn't do that because A) it totally backfired on him and B) he just looked plain creepy. So just be you. If you're not genuine, your own happiness will decrease and people will see right through you. People should love you for you.
5. Embrace your inner and outer ugly.
We all have things about ourselves we are not proud of whether it be a physical attribute or an inner emotion/feeling. But honestly, who cares! We're all human. Due to societal standards, we go through our days constantly comparing ourselves to other people. But the harsh truth is that we are not perfect...and that's okay. Embrace any insecurity you have and help others do the same because we are all beautiful - flaws and all.
6. Don't be scared of change.
I know it's easier said than done, but just trust me. Change can be good. Whether you're a Freshman still finding your way through high school, a senior deciding on colleges, or you're going through some sort of mid-life crisis, you'll be okay. Don't treat the situation as Spongebob and Patrick did when Sandy's pet "Wormy" changed into a butterfly because that just led to complete chaos. Have faith and trust that everything happens for a reason.
7. Perseverance is key.
It took Spongebob an extensive amount of tries to get his driver's license. (To be completely honest, I don't think he ever ended up getting it...) BUT that's not the point! He never gave up and neither should you. Put your best efforts into all that you do and even if things don't work out right away, keep trying because you learn from the past.
8. Always be there for your friends - no matter what.
Friendship is a two way street. Don't be selfish and inconsiderate because just as you'd want your friends to be there for you in a certain situation, you should do the same for them.
9. NEVER grow up.
Embrace all of the silly, quirky, loud, and child-like things residing within you. Stay up late, eat an entire tub of ice cream, laugh until you cry and/or snort out your juice, and never stop making sand castles and blanket forts! Life is too short to not enjoy the little things which were once our entire world as kids.