We can learn these 5 things from the series

Regardless of whether we prefer romance or action, comedy or mystery, after a tiring day we only expect distraction and relaxation from a series. However, in order for us to stay loyal to a show for longer than a weekend – and to watch it again and again, two other factors must be met: an exciting plot and authentic characters with whom you can root for, identify with and, in the best case, even over several seasons can still learn something. And all while chilling from the sofa!

Joyn’s diverse and extensive streaming offering includes numerous series highlights that meet these criteria. Among other things, the popular teen hit “Pretty Little Liars” will soon be available (from October 1st). The message of the mystery series about 5 high school students who are bullied by the anonymous villain “A”? According to producer I. Marlene King, it’s about “showing audiences that with friendship you can get through anything,” from breakups to betrayals to mental health issues. The young women stick together and become positive role models. We can all watch these valuable life lessons from Emily, Spencer, Hanna, Aria and Alison. Spoiler alert!

1. Emily: Be yourself

Queer Emily Fields (Shay Mitchell) had lost her identity. In the first season she finds it difficult to come out as a lesbian. She is afraid of the reactions of her family, especially her mother, who reacted very negatively. But Emily learns to stand up for herself and experience her sexuality without shame. Her storyline powerfully conveys how important it is to accept yourself. No matter what challenges you have to overcome: real life only begins when you stand up for your true self.

2. Spencer: Ambition is good, balance is better

She is the smart one of the group, highly intelligent and focused. Her extreme perfectionism drives her to constantly deliver new top performances in order to meet her parents’ demands. Driven by her desire for success at school, in her private life and in the search for “A”, Spencer Hastings (Troian Bellisario) constantly puts herself under pressure, which puts a lot of mental strain on her and leads to her addiction to pills. It’s only in the last two seasons that she realizes that she doesn’t always have to be the best and that it’s okay to make mistakes. Spencer’s story teaches us not to lose sight of self-care and health, as well as our innermost needs and desires, in the pursuit of recognition.

3. Hanna: True beauty comes from within

Afterwards, Hanna Marin (Ashley Benson) seems like a confident young woman who knows exactly what she wants. However, we repeatedly see in flashbacks how she struggled with her weight and was teased because of it. Even though she has now lost weight and is one of the popular students at Rosewood High, the insecure girl is still inside her. It takes a while for her to overcome her self-doubt and realize that her real friends don’t judge her based on appearance, but value her for her warmth, humor and willpower. And yes, even though Hanna is the character in PLL who we envy most for her stylish outfits, we still learn from her: invest more time in your personal development than in your wardrobe!

4th Aria: Communication is the basis for a successful relationship

At the start of the series in 2010, there were already numerous voices who found the romance between student Aria Montgomery (Lucy Hale) and her English teacher Ezra Fitz (Ian Harding) creepy and inappropriate. In fact, #Ezria’s biggest crises do not result from the age difference. Many conflicts and problems are based on a mix of secrets and poor communication. They have to learn the hard way: Even the greatest love cannot simply forgive lies. Regardless of what you think of the series couple, you can still learn something from their liaison: open conversations and trust are the foundation of a stable partnership.

5. Alison: Everyone deserves a second chance

Alison DiLaurentis (Sasha Pieterse) is the classic “Mean Girl” – manipulative, mean and seemingly ruthless. After her surprising return from the dead, however, she appears remorseful and tries to regain the trust of her clique. She finally leaves her past as a bully with all the lies and intrigues behind her with the help of her friends. No one is flawless, but you can change if you are truly willing to work on yourself. It’s never too late to make a new start when you have people around you who forgive and support you.

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