Ten Ways to Apply “Harry Potter” Values in the New Year
The Potter series has taught us so much about how to be a good person and how to improve the world around us. After 2017, it might seem like the problems around us are too big to change on our own, but don’t let that discourage you. Here are 10 lessons from Potter that you can try to incorporate into your life in 2018.
1. Use your strengths to help others.
When Harry and Hermione see that they aren’t learning anything from Professor Umbridge, they take it upon themselves to teach their classmates. Think about the skills you have. Are you an artist? Do you love technology? Consider starting a class to teach members of your community a new skill.
2. Don’t worry so much about what others think.
Luna Lovegood is known for being “loony” but she is just being herself. She’s not afraid to be who she is and what others think. So the next time you wonder what someone else might think about something you want to do, remember Luna and follow your gut despite potential judgment.
3. Channel your inner Hufflepuff.
Hufflepuffs are hardworking, kind, and inclusive. In 2018, try channeling Hufflepuff by being kinder and working toward your goals.
4. Don’t be afraid to laugh a little.
Fred and George are the biggest jokers around. They opened a joke shop in the middle of the war against Voldemort. The next time your friends are upset about something in the news, try to cheer them up with a joke inspired by the Weasley twins.
5. Stand by your friends.
James, Sirius, and Peter made sure that Remus had friends to help him deal with his “hairy” problem. When a member of your squad goes through a tough time, remember how the Marauders were there for each other. Channel that support and help your squad just as much as they did.
6. Soak up more knowledge.
Hermione Granger is the brightest witch of her age. She accomplishes incredible things and solves every mystery that comes her way. She’s able to do this because of all of the books she reads. In a world of social media, it can be hard to set aside time to read books. Follow in Hermione’s footsteps by reading more in 2018.
7. Surround yourself with people who share your values and interests.
Sirius, Andromeda, and Harry all disagreed with their families’ values. That didn’t stop them from fighting for what they believed in. They found friends who supported them and created their own families. Sometimes it seems like we’re on a totally different page than some of our family members. When that happens, remember you have the support of your friends, your chosen family, and find strength in them.
8. It’s the thought that counts.
Molly Weasley spends a lot of time knitting sweaters for her family for Christmas because she doesn’t have a lot of money to spend on presents, but she also does it because she knows that homemade presents mean more. When it comes time to buy a present for a friend or family member, consider making something for them. It’ll save you some money and the person you give it to will appreciate the time and effort you put into the gift.
9. Stay informed.
Hermione got a copy of the Daily Prophet every day, even when she disagreed with its content. She wanted to stay informed about the wizarding world. The news cycle in 2017 was often overwhelming. While it’s important to take breaks from the news sometimes, make an effort to be more informed about the world around you in 2018.
10. Never give up on your dreams.
When Ron joins the Quidditch team, he’s not that good and the Slytherins make fun of him, but he doesn’t let that deter him. He may have hit a few rough spots where he wanted to throw in the towel, but he plows ahead and plays anyway. Don’t let others get in the way of you chasing your dreams. People are going to tell you that you can’t do something. The next time that happens, hum “Weasley Is Our King” under your breath.
Let us know in the comments how you plan to incorporate the lessons of Harry Potter into your daily life in 2018.