There is more to being a Slytherin than blood status and opening the chamber. In fact, Slytherin’s are by far the most misunderstood house at Hogwarts -- by Muggles, at least. Being cunning and doing what ever it takes to reach your goal aren’t bad qualities. I would argue they are some of the best qualities a person can have. Everyone needs a Slytherin in their life to help them through tough decisions and self-doubt, because we damn sure believe in ourselves and we don’t just make decisions for the here-and-now. We Slytherins think of what is best for us and the people we surround ourselves with in the long run. These are the values of a Slytherin. Now here are some things you need to hear from a Slytherin.
1. You did it!
You’ve come a long way. Whether you’re still in your hometown or not. Whether you’ve made it through that double shift at the Old Navy or you just finished that report at the office. Celebrate you and everything about you. Don’t compare your accomplishments to that of others. “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” - Albert Einstein. Be the best at what you do and don’t look down on others. Instead, look to your left and right because those people are why you are where you are.
2. You look damn good.
Do this right now. Go to a mirror, look at yourself, smile -- laugh, maybe. Think about something or someone that has inspired you to keep moving forward. Now when you walk away, don’t forget that person or what they did to inspire you. Part of being a Slytherin is knowing that we owe our success to someone and we aren’t the best… yet. Also, take a look at your ass, because dayum you look good -- inside and out.
3. You’re an inspiration.
Did someone ever compliment you on what you do or how nice you are? Does someone light up when they see you? No? You’re a liar. You are moving forward in your life and you should aspire to make a mark on the world. I can guarantee that this point in time you have inspired someone. If you don’t believe me, go to the nearest animal shelter and pet a dog. Look at how they light up at your mere presence. Someone has looked at you this way, maybe not externally or this obvious, but I am sure they have.
4. You are you.
Yeah, yeah, cheesy statement about how unique you are. But seriously, you’re pretty awesome. “You are perfectly cast in your life. I can’t imagine anyone but you in the role. Go play.” - Lin Manuel-Miranda. You are the one person you have to be with for the rest of your life, so you best appreciate yourself for being the beautiful human you are. You do you boo boo, and you best do you damn well, because you deserve your best you.
5. Forget that person.
Look, they don’t need to be in your life. You don’t need anyone’s mere presence to survive. They were probably toxic for you, anyway. Did you like that person romantically? Were you in a relationship with them? Grab a good friend, a tub of ice cream (or bottle of preference) and watch "The Half Blood Prince" and look at Lavender and Ron -- ew.
6. TREAT. YO. SELF.
You put yourself through a lot. Work, school, a social life -- take a break. Go on a date by yourself. Get dressed nice and go to that really nice restaurant down the street that you can’t really afford. F*ck it. You deserve to be wined and dined and you shouldn’t wait for anyone to do it for you. Now you might not be able to come back here for another few paychecks, but you deserve it. Get all your work done over time and don’t cram, this will open up time for you to get some more sleep or watch a movie every once in awhile. Always do your work, but remember you and your health should always come first.
We Slytherins know ourselves. We appreciate ourselves. We may “use” other people, but it is because we know when we can’t do something on our own and sometimes someone else may be better at something. Asking for help doesn’t make you weak. It makes you smart. Being strong enough to ask for help is a very admirable quality that makes a Slyhtherin a great team worker. Appreciate the Slytherins in your life. They wouldn’t keep you around if you didn’t have something to offer. I know I appreciate the Ravenclaws, Hufflepuffs, and even Gryffindors in mine. Take advice from a Slytherin, it is OK to be selfish.
