For certain people, the mention of Disney princesses immediately conjures images of glass slippers or fairytale weddings. If you’re reading this, we bet your yearning has always looked a little different, with dreams of carrying a bow and arrow, riding a gallant steed and wielding the freedom to reject all of the demands and expectations that have never suited you.
Fans of Brave‘s Merida take a different approach to the Disney stories of old, embracing independence and initiative over swooning romance. If that sounds like you, we bet you’ll relate to the following eight things.
You’d Rather Fix Your Own Problems Than Wait to Be Rescued
You’ve never been the type to need true love’s kiss or some heartthrob prince to save the day. From the beginning, you’ve preferred to handle things yourself.
Similarly, Merida doesn’t wait around for anyone else to solve her problems. Even if her impulsive and sometimes reckless nature occasionally gets her into trouble, she can get herself out of it, grabbing her bow and confronting her problems head-on.
(Brave via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Your Hair Tends to Have a Mind of Its Own
You’ve made peace with your wild hair, because in a way, it’s a reflection of who you are deep down.
Whether it’s curls that won’t cooperate or straight hair that rejects any waves or textures, you probably feel a deep connection with Merida’s fiery untamed hair. Your mane does what it wants, just like you.
Also read about: 12 Style Tips From Your Fave Disney Princesses
You’ve Had at Least One Regrettable Fight With Your Mom
The trials of Merida and Elinor’s relationship really hit home if you’ve ever had similar blowout argument with your own mother. Chances are that in the moment, it felt like a life-or-death situation, with emotions rising high because you weren’t feeling heard.
You get her struggle, and have probably also apologized in a way that involved way less magic than Merida’s did. Maybe you’re still seeking your own enchanted moment with her to help you get on the same page.
(Brave via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
You’ve Never Accepted a ‘Because I Said So’
You’ve never believed in tradition for traditions sake. When rules don’t make sense, you need to know why they exist before you’ll follow them.
Merida, too, questions literally every custom her kingdom tries to hand her without explanation, and winds up changing everything in the process. She’s proof that challenging the system works.
Also read about: Let Your Zodiac Sign Reveal Which Disney Princess You Truly Are
You Know You Don’t Need a Love Interest to Be Complete
Merida remains one of the few Disney princesses whose movies don’t include a romantic subplot, and that’s probably one of the reasons why you adore her.
You’ve always been drawn to stories defined by romance, and none of your favorite life experiences have revolved around dating, either.
(Brave via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
You Have a Niche Hobby You Take Very Seriously
Merida’s passion for archery and horseback riding have inspired you, and even if you don’t do those actual activities, you definitely have an activity or two that you’ve spend an unreasonable number of hours perfecting.
You take pride in your accomplishments and having mastery in a field makes you feel powerful and in control.
Also read about: What to Read Next, Based on Your Favorite Disney Princess
You’d Choose the Woods Over a Ballroom Any Day of the Week
Few things appeal to you more than the idea of being forced to perform for an audience, fake smiles and engage in small talk wearing a frilly dress.
You’d take a solo horseback ride through the forest over a formal event every time with zero regrets whatsoever.
You Believe the Chance to Change Fate Is Always Worth the Risk
Merida’s story is all about confronting the life that’s been set out for her and believing that fate is never fixed. Even when everyone around her sys it’s impossible, she fights for a different outcome.
We bet that you also ascribe to this worldview. No one else is allowed to choose the life that you’re going to live, and you’ll fight for that right.
For even more from Brave, click HERE to discover all of the film’s best quotes as Instagram captions.
