The 5 Most Vital Life Lessons From The ‘Harry Potter’ Series

After finishing the Harry Potter series for the first time, I realized two things: (1) I’m definitely a ‘Potter’ fan for life, and (2) there are so many life lessons interwoven between the characters and the story. While Harry Potter is a fictional series, in many ways, it’s also non-fiction, as the lessons that one takes from the stories can be applied to one’s own life.

Here are five of the most prevalent ones…

It’s important to talk about things

So often in our lives, we refrain from talking about things that make us seem weak, but vulnerability is not weakness. By being afraid to say Voldemort’s name, Rowling emphasized this idea when Dumbledore told Harry to call him by his real name. By giving things that scare us a name, we minimize their power over us.

Face your fears

Throughout the series, the main characters constantly push themselves to achieve new heights, stretching their comfort zones no matter how scary it may be. Whether it’s facing a giant spider or pursuing the life you’ve always dreamt of, we can all learn from the courage shown in the books.

It’s okay to break the rules

As long as you’re not breaking the law, that is. While society enforces rules and guidelines on success and happiness, perhaps the real essence of those terms lies in living by your own rules, not the ones created by others. Don’t be afraid to scribble outside the lines and craft the life you desire.

Death isn’t something to be feared

A recurring theme throughout the stories is the constant presence of death. Harry and his friends are repeatedly placed in situations where they are inches from danger. While many of us don’t face such extreme circumstances, it’s important to recognize that life is temporary and unpredictable. It’s a privilege to be here, now, in this moment. Embrace it fully, because the fleeting nature of life is a hidden blessing.

Love is the ultimate answer

Love—for yourself, your relationships, and the people you care about—is the cornerstone of everything. It determines how life feels on the inside. When love fills your life with meaning and connection, it becomes a life well-lived. As Dumbledore said in The Deathly Hallows, Part 2, “Do not pity the dead, Harry. Pity the living, and, above all, those who live without love.” I wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment.