My entire life has been heavily impacted by the books I read. To me, books aren't just stories, but individual views on the world and the lessons we learn throughout our lives. Reading has helped me form my personal values and perception of the world around me. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott is one of my all time favorite books. It's not just a coming of age story; it's an exploration of what it means to be a woman in a world that tries to limit female ambition and independence. Through the lives of the March sisters, and particularly Jo March, I've learned how to be unapologetically goal oriented and to challenge the patriarchal structures that dictate what women should want or strive for. Jo's relentless pursuit of her writing career is one of the most powerful representations of female independence. During a time where women were expected to conform to domestic roles, Jo refused to let her identity be defined by marriage or societal approval. I heavily relate to her determination to live on her own terms. Like Jo, I value my personal autonomy as well as my career aspirations. Her journey throughout the story has taught me that being a woman doesn't mean sacrificing ambition for tradition. This mindset motivates me to prioritize my goals, such as studying biology on top of embracing creativity in my life. Jo's passion for writing has inspired me to pursue my own dreams with the same fervor and dedication. The novel also delves into the tension between personal ambition and the societal pressure women face to be selfless, quiet, and subservient to patriarchal norms. Jo's struggle with whether to conform or rebel against these standards reflects the same challenges women continue to face today. Society often tells women to be "less" of themselves so they fit into the mold created for them. I've been told to be less assertive, less independent, less focused on personal success, while men consistently get praised for having those same qualities. Little Women has given me a framework to understand that resisting these pressures is not only valid, but necessary for personal fulfillment. Jo's rejection of the notion that her only path to happiness is through marriage inspires me to challenge the idea that women must adhere to predetermined roles. The relationship between Jo and her sisters' diverse paths in life illustrates that womanhood isn't monolithic. Each of the March sisters embody different ways to navigate societal constraints. Meg embraces traditional femininity, Amy pursues her passion for art, Beth quietly upholds family values, and Jo fiercely fights for her independence. This diversity has taught me that there is no single way to be a woman, and that we should all have the freedom to define our own lives. However, the patriarchy often narrows these definitions, pushing women towards more specific, limiting roles. This understanding has prompted me to examine my own life, ensuring that my goals are genuinely my own and not just shaped by external expectations. Reading this book has done more for me than just entertain, it has shown me that independence and ambition are not traits to be compromised for the sake of fitting into the patriarchy's narrow view of womanhood. Little Women has reinforced the importance of defining success for myself, and not through the lens of other people's standards. Jo March's refusal to settle has inspired me to pursue my ambitions with just as much confidence. This message continues to push me to follow my dreams, while remaining mindful of the ways the world may attempt to confine me.