2014 has definitely been a great year for Shailene Woodley.

The 22-year-old star was just named Breakout Actress at the Hollywood Film Awards for her role in "The Fault In Our Stars."

"This movie changed my life prolifically," said Woodley at the event. "It's such a gift for me to know that other people have seen it because I think that the messages entwined in its words are so powerful. "

In the hit film, based on a John Green novel, Woodley plays teenage cancer patient Hazel, who falls in love with the disarmingly charming Augustus Waters, who she meets at a cancer support group.

Woodley has become a Hollywood "It Girl" in recent years, particularly due to her roles in "The Fault In Our Stars," the "Divergent" franchise, and 2011's "The Descendants."

The actress accepted her Hollywood Film Award from Laura Dern, who played her mother in "The Fault In Our Stars." Dern affectionately called Woodley "the biggest open heart I know."

During her acceptance speech, Woodley told the audience what she learned from playing a young woman dealing with a terminal illness.

"At 16 years old, she recognizes it's not about how long a life we lead or the mark we leave on the world that matters. It's about simple things like gratitude and not taking anything for granted," explained the actress (via PEOPLE).

"Every day we wake up and we're breathing, we're winning," she continued. "We all already have victories on our plate the second we leave our pillows in the morning. [My character] reminded me of that, that simple truth."

"She recognizes at a young age that regardless of the conditions we have in our lives - whether they're spiritual, mental, physical whatever - they don't define us," added Woodley. "We are not defined by exterior situations."