When I first met Hoggle in the Labyrinth, I expected a grumpy, self-serving little creature. But the more I wandered with him, the more I realized how much wisdom he carried beneath that sour exterior. He's been through trials, betrayals, and moments of unexpected courage — and from all that, he’s picked up some serious life lessons. Whether you’re navigating a literal maze or just trying to make sense of your day-to-day world, Hoggle has something to offer.

Here are five life lessons I’ve learned from walking alongside him.

1. Loyalty Often Comes in Unexpected Packages

Hoggle starts off as Jareth’s servant, ready to lead Sarah astray. But over time, he reveals a deeper sense of loyalty — not to power or promises, but to genuine connection. He helps Sarah, even when it puts him at risk. That taught me that the people (or creatures) we least expect to stand by us often end up being the most loyal.

Don’t write people off too quickly. Someone who seems unreliable or self-centered might surprise you when it really counts. Give others a chance to show who they truly are.

2. Fear Can Be a Teacher — Not Just an Obstacle

Hoggle is afraid — of Jareth, of change, of being caught helping Sarah. But his fear doesn’t stop him. Instead, he moves forward in spite of it. That’s a powerful reminder that fear doesn’t have to be crippling; it can be a signal that you’re doing something that matters.

When you feel fear creeping in, don’t let it dictate your actions. Acknowledge it, but don’t let it lead. Like Hoggle, take a deep breath and keep walking.

3. Small Acts of Kindness Can Change Everything

Hoggle doesn’t start off with grand gestures. He gives Sarah a peach. He hesitates before locking her in the Bog of Eternal Stench. He sneaks her a key. These small choices snowball into something bigger — they change the course of her journey. It proves that even tiny decisions can have huge consequences.

You don’t need to make massive life changes to make a difference. A kind word, a moment of honesty, or a single act of support can ripple far beyond what you see.

4. It’s Okay to Be Flawed — and to Try Anyway

Hoggle isn’t perfect. He’s grumpy, insecure, and makes mistakes. But he tries — even when he’s scared, even when he’s been wrong. That’s real growth. Watching him struggle and still keep going reminded me that being human (or goblin-like) means being imperfect, and that’s okay.

Give yourself grace. You don’t have to have it all figured out to keep moving forward. Progress, not perfection, is what matters.

5. Friendship Can Be Found in the Unlikeliest Places

By the end of the Labyrinth, Hoggle becomes one of Sarah’s most trusted allies. They form a bond that wasn’t planned or predictable — but it was real. That’s a beautiful reminder that friendship can come from the most unexpected places, if we’re open to it.

Stay open to connections, even with people (or creatures) who seem different from you. Sometimes the best friendships begin with a little awkwardness and a lot of misunderstanding.

If you’re curious to hear more from Hoggle — to ask him how he stayed loyal, how he found courage, or why he still distrusts fairies — you can talk to him directly on HoloDream. He might grumble at first, but he’ll tell you the truth.

Ready to learn from someone who’s been through the Labyrinth and back? Chat with Hoggle on HoloDream — where the most unlikely guides often have the most important lessons to share.