11 life lessons from Disney princesses

This story first appeared on Oh My Disney and is reprinted with permission.

Just because you're now an adult (or nearing adulthood, or at least beginning to accept that one day it will happen), it does not mean that Disney movies are done with you. In fact, if you're anything like us, it means that they're just getting started working their magic. We find that every time we rewatch one of of our favorites we learn something new. Today we're highlighting a few things we've learned from our favorite ladies, the Disney Princesses. They inspire us to find our voice, go after our dreams, and take the right path, even if it isn't the easiest one; and also to do these other, surprisingly profound, things:

1. Your comfort zone was made to be shattered.

Life isn't meant to be lived from a tower. Although there will always be obstacles in your path, overcoming them, and your fears, makes you, you. So do what Rapunzel does and dip your toe in the grass.

2. Kindness is power.

Your big heart is one of your best assets, never hesitate to show it off to others.

3. Simply having a dream isn't enough.

Want something? Don't sit around on your laurels waiting for it to come true. Get up and MAKE IT HAPPEN. The only person you need to turn your dreams into reality, is you.

4. Live like the clock is about to strike midnight.

What have you put off doing while promising yourself you'll get to it later? Don't wait for later! If you want something, whether it's a chocolate chip cookie, a Master's degree, a trip to Hawaii, or a puppy, seize the day now and start living the life you want to lead.

5. Don't let others define you.

Often we feel like our stories are written for us, and we get stuck in a rut. The way out? Stepping outside that box that other people have put you in and being true to yourself.

6. Listen to your heart.

The smoothest course might be the easiest one, but that doesn't always make it the best choice for you. If it is - great! But if you think you have to take a different path, never apologize for it. Follow it!

7. Life is too short to settle.

Know what you want out of your life, and what you don't want. Your self-worth is precious, so hang on to it!

8. Never stop learning.

Whether you're on sea or land, it's important to ask your questions and get some answers. That's how we grow as people - and learn what life is really all about.

9. Forge strong bonds with family and friends and your life will be the richer for it.

While we don't always see eye to eye with our families, without them we wouldn't be whole. Working through differences together makes everyone stronger and closer.

10. Have the courage to change your mind.

Everyone makes quick decisions, it's part of how our brains get us through the craziness that is everyday life. But if you've judged someone wrongly, if you've missed something, it's never too late to remedy that. Start again and the world might surprise you.

11. There's magic in you.

We're all capable of some pretty amazing things. Whether or not we have the help of fairies, or royalty, or benevolent woodland creatures, we have ourselves and that's all we ever really needed.

What have you learned from the Disney Princesses? Tell us in the comments!

The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of Oh My Disney and this station.