Do you feel a strong connection to certain animals? Do you often wonder, "What animal would I be if I weren't human?"
If so, we have one thing in common. I, too, have always wondered what animal I would be.
To be honest, I've always dreamed that my animal type would be exotic, majestic, fierce, and graceful, like a lion. I'd also be okay with being a wise, mysterious owl or a playful, energetic dolphin.
But, alas, reality is not as glamorous as fiction.
According to the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, or MBTI for short, I'm neither of those creatures. In fact, my spirit animal would be something that I never even considered before—a fox (lol!).
But wait, what exactly is a spirit animal? How does it relate to MBTI personality traits? And which animal are you based on your personality type?
Well, let's break it down.
If you're here without knowing your MBTI and see yourself in one of the animals, I challenge you to take a 16 personalities assessment to see if your instincts are spot on. You might be as surprised as I was!
Why Do People's Personalities Resemble Animals?
Typically, we can only understand a small amount of what goes on in an animal’s mind. But, we talk of people we admire as having the eye of the tiger or soaring like an eagle. People we don't care for are sloths, roaches, or vultures.
So, why do we use animal references to describe people? Is there such a strong correlation between human and animal behavior? Are these connections coincidental, or is there a simpler explanation
There are a few interesting reasons why people's personalities might resemble animals, including evolutionary parallels, anthropomorphism, symbolic meaning, and self-identification.
Evolutionary Parallels
Over time, both humans and animals have developed specific traits to survive and flourish in their environments. Thus, we often assign characteristics to them based on our experiences with them.
A lion's bravery might mirror the decisiveness needed for a leader, while an owl's focus resembles the deep concentration required for complex problem-solving. Perhaps recognizing these evolutionary parallels between ourselves and certain animals creates a sense of connection.
Anthropomorphism
Anthropomorphism is the tendency for humans to attribute human characteristics and behaviors to non-human creatures. We project our own emotions, thoughts, and behaviors onto animals as a way of understanding and relating to them.
So, when we see someone shy and timid, we may automatically think of an animal like a mouse or rabbit. Just think about how much we anthropomorphize our pets!
Symbolic Meanings
Many animals have long-standing symbolic meanings in different cultures and traditions. For example, a bear is often associated with strength and protectiveness, while a wolf represents loyalty and family unity.
This symbolism can be passed down through generations and become deeply ingrained in our collective consciousness. When we see someone embodying these qualities, we may immediately think of them as having the spirit of that animal.
Self-Identification
Finally, we may see ourselves in certain animals and identify with them for that reason. Perhaps you've always been drawn to the grace and agility of a deer or the intelligence and playfulness of a dolphin.
These animals may represent qualities and traits you aspire to or already possess. And when we identify so strongly with an animal, it's only natural to think of it as our spirit animal.
The Four F's of Animal Personality Traits
Human personality theories provide a more nuanced framework for understanding our character, focusing on cognitive functions, emotions, and preferences. For instance, the MBTI system delves deeper into the "why" behind human actions and motivations. The Big Five system, on the other hand, focuses more on the "what" of human behavior. The Enneagram system delves into the "how" of our personalities.
But what about animals? Is there an approach that can help us understand a simplified view of animal behavior beyond just descriptive labels, such as "aggressive" or "friendly"?
The Four Fs approach may provide some insight. This framework categorizes animals based on four distinct behavioral categories: fighting, fleeing, feeding, and mating (the final word begins with the letter "M" rather than "F," which is a reticent allusion to the cruder synonym).
Each category represents a different instinctual reaction in the face of danger or stress.
Fighting
Fighting is equivalent to how we try and control our environment. This behavior is characterized by aggression, dominance, and assertiveness. The personalities of predatory animals are assertive and aggressive, while those at the bottom of the pecking order are passive and cautious in a human context. This category might be associated with extraversion and assertiveness.
Fleeing
Fleeing describes how we interact with danger and protect ourselves from each other. Individuals who score highly in this category are anxious and cautious. Think of herd personalities that instinctually find refuge in the company of family and friends; wolves prefer tightly-knit social groups, and mice personalities are naturally low-key or introverted.
Feeding
Feeding describes our approach to resources. Simply put, it translates into the careers that corresponding human personalities would choose. Bird personalities, for example, are independent and self-sufficient and might choose a career that provides a great deal of freedom. On the other hand, sheep personalities might flourish under the leadership of a strong dog personality. Canine personalities like dogs, wolves, and foxes naturally thrive in a structured and hierarchical environment.
Mating
Mating represents how we interact with others, particularly our need for intimacy. From the brutal strength posture of the elk to the seductive display of peacocks, every animal personality strives to use a distinctive set of subtle body language to exert its influence. Psychologically, this category represents our desire for closeness, acceptance, and connection with others.
How Does the MBTI Relate to the Idea of Having a Spirit Animal?
In many cultures, the concept of a spirit animal is deeply revered, representing a spiritual guide whose characteristics embody qualities that are seen or needed in a person's life. While respecting the profound cultural significance of this tradition, our playful exploration draws a lighter, more whimsical parallel by assigning different animals to the 16 MBTI personality types.
Just as the idea of a spirit animal can inspire reflection and insight, our MBTI animal personality types offer a fun and engaging way to see ourselves and our inherent traits mirrored in the animal kingdom. This lighthearted approach invites curiosity and self-discovery, encouraging us to explore aspects of our personalities in a new and imaginative way."
The Myers-Briggs test represents a framework of 16 distinct personality types based on preferences in four dimensions: how people gain energy (Extraversion vs. Introversion), how they perceive information (Sensing vs. Intuition), how they make decisions (Thinking vs. Feeling), and how they deal with the world (Judging vs. Perceiving).
Associating these types with animals is a playful way to find correlations between the two systems. For instance, let's say you've taken a spirit animal quiz, and it tells you that your spirit animal is a bear—known for strength, protection, and leadership. In MBTI terms, this may correlate to being an ENTJ (Extroverted – Intuitive – Thinking – Judging) personality type, also known for being assertive and goal-oriented.
This doesn't mean that all ENTJs will have a spirit animal of a bear. Still, it's interesting to see potential connections between the two systems. It's important to note that human-animal personality is not rooted in scientific evidence; view the concept as a fun exercise rather than a serious endeavor.
In summary, here is how the MBTI can factor into finding our animal personality:
- Cognitive Functions: Each Myers-Briggs type has a dominant and auxiliary cognitive function that influences how we perceive and interact with the world. These functions can correspond to different animal behaviors, such as intuition being associated with wolves who rely on instinct and gut feelings.
- Preferences: Our MBTI type also reflects our preferences and strengths, which can align with certain animal behaviors and personalities. For example, someone who is an introverted thinker may resonate with the quiet intelligence of an owl. In contrast, someone who is an extroverted feeler may identify with a dolphin's playful and social nature.
- Shadow Functions: The shadow functions in the MBTI system represent our unconscious tendencies and weaknesses. These can sometimes manifest in the form of an animal we are afraid of or dislike, which may serve as a reminder to work on those aspects of ourselves.
- Personality Traits: Many animal traits can be associated with human personality or vice versa. For instance, the five major dimensions of the Big Five personality type (openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism) can correspond to different animal behaviors and characteristics. Theories like the MBTI analyze trait combinations and assign them to different types we can connect to specific animals.
16 MBTI Spirit Animals: What's Your Animal Personality Type?
Now that we've explored the potential connections between MBTI and spirit animals, it’s time to see which animals match up with the 16 personality types. Before proceeding, take a moment and think about which animal you will be — either based on your MBTI results or if you haven’t taken the test yet, based on the personality traits you identify with certain animals.
Is it a bold and fierce lion? A playful and social dolphin? A wise and intuitive owl?
Okay, ready?
Here are some potential spirit animal personality types for each of the MBTI's 16 personality types.
If you identify with something entirely different from the animals on this list, remember that our personalities are complex and multidimensional (plus we only chose one animal for each type).
So, it's okay to resonate with more than one animal or none at all.
Like the beaver—always building a dam to protect its community from danger—ISTJs are methodical, hardworking, and reliable. They chuck in as much effort, grit, and sincerity into friendships as they do at their 9-5s. Even though ISTJ personality types might occasionally miss the emotional cues of those around them, they're still ace at being loyal friends.
Both beavers and ISTJs are known for being incredibly dedicated workers. And, if they unintentionally step on your emotional toes, trust them to be the first to pull a full 180 to try and patch things up in such a way you'd not notice. They are interested in maintaining harmony and respecting everyone's feelings.
And bonus: you'll likely never need to rescue them from a late-night call at the police station. Why? Because ISTJs are the epitome of sensibility, and their sh*t is pretty much always together.
Like elephants, ISFJs are known for their warm and nurturing nature, always putting others' needs before theirs. They have a strong sense of loyalty and protectiveness over their loved ones. They may come across as introverted and quiet but are incredibly observant and attentive to the emotions of those around them.
Just like elephants who never forget, these fierce individuals tend to have a keen memory (develop strong emotional connections to their past experiences—good and bad). They are often the ones in the group who remember important details and events. They do not primarily rely upon attention or recognition. Still, their contributions and support make them essential members of any social circle.
Just like the wolf who runs with its pack but also enjoys moments of solitude, INFJs are intensely interested in deep connections but also crave alone time to recharge and reflect. Their introverted intuition allows them to see beyond the surface and understand the bigger picture.
Infamously known for being one of the rarest personality types, INFJs are powerful, independent yet affectionate, and remarkably insightful. Unlike other animals, they remain mysterious and complex to most people. They can read emotions like an open book and, because of their empathetic nature, serve as a support system for their loved ones.
If you're super strategic, innovative, and often solitary, with a mysterious aura, your spirit animal type might be an octopus. People often criticize INTJs for being too emotionally detached or cold, but that's not the case. They're just processing their thoughts and ideas internally before sharing them with others. INTJs are often considered the most independent of all the personality types and work best when given freedom.
Similarly, octopuses are known for their intelligence (they are acutely aware of their own intelligence) and complex problem-solving skills. They often use camouflage to blend in with their surroundings. They may seem aloof at times, but this behavior isn't meant to be taken personally. It's just one of the many side effects of being a total boss who has zero drama.
Introverted, spontaneous, and independent—ISTPs have much in common with cats. They are naturally analytic and quiet, often drawn to hands-on activities and trying to figure out how things work. But they are also explorers who can easily become bored with just a single routine or task. They crave freedom and autonomy, much like cats, who are often closet daredevils drawn to high places and tight spaces.
They are also "live and let live" types not particularly concerned with adhering to rules and conventions. They also prefer that others not concern themselves with their behavior. Some have even remarked that they see a bit of themselves in the "don't tread on me" attitude of felines.
Possibly the most laid-back and easygoing of all MBTI types, ISFPs are gentle, caring, adaptable aesthetes who enjoy action and spontaneity. They are highly sensitive to their environment, and like pandas who thrive in peaceful bamboo forests, ISFPs prefer a calm and harmonious atmosphere.
This doesn't mean ISFPs don't care deeply about who will win the World Cup or who's running for President. They do, but they won't let the weight of the world crush them. ISFP personality doesn't rush the present or dwell on the future. They often prefer to do things at their own pace rather than create ripples in their tranquil lives.
Soft-spoken, sensitive, and creative, we couldn't imagine a better fit for the INFP personality type than the gentle and graceful deer. These gentle creatures are often associated with sensitivity, intuition, and creativity – all traits that INFPs embody.
Deer are often associated with spirituality and purity in various cultures and mythologies. In many traditions, the deer symbolizes gentleness, grace, and peace, qualities that are frequently tied to spiritual ideals. Known for their strong values and idealism, people with the INFP personality type are quite similar to deer in this way.
Known for their analytical and rational mindset, INTPs and owls are two peas in a pod when it comes to personality. Both are highly intelligent, curious, analytical, and thoughtful individuals who enjoy exploring new concepts and ideas.
INTPs are also word-working conservative types. They often prefer to work alone and tend to be more introverted, much like the solitary nature of owls. They have a knack for solving complex problems and identifying patterns that others may miss.
Like owls, the INTP personality type is independent and not easily swayed by societal norms or materialism. As long they have plenty of solitude, opportunities to use their intellect, and a good book, INTPs will be content.
Just like the cheetah, which can sprint up to a whopping 75 mph (hold on to your hats!), ESTP personality types are all about living life in the fast lane. They're the first to jump into action and thrive in high-risk, high-reward situations.
With a need for speed, not just in their actions but in their thought processes, too, ESTPs are quick thinkers and even quicker decision-makers. They're not the type to sit around and ponder for too long; they'd rather be out there, making things happen and stirring up some excitement.
Like the majestic cheetah, ESTPs are agile, adaptable, and always ready for whatever adventure comes their way. They are also natural-born leaders who excel under pressure and love processing complex theories.
If being the life of the party were an Olympic sport, ESFPs would win gold every time. Like dolphins, they are playful, energetic, and highly social creatures who love entertaining and making others laugh.
They also thrive in group settings and have a natural charm that makes them the center of attention wherever they go. They are the bubbliest folks you'll ever meet. To them, spending a Sunday afternoon doing nothing is a fate worse than death. They would much rather be out exploring and experiencing new things and making the most of every moment.
Do you remember that person in college who could strike up a conversation with anyone and make instant friends wherever they went? Yeah, that's the ENFP personality type. Like parrots, they are vivacious and popular enthusiasts, highly sociable, and have a talent for communication. They also tend to be creative, spontaneous, and quick to notice patterns and act upon their observations.
Both parrots and ENFPs also crave novelty and excitement in their lives, always seeking new experiences and opportunities for growth. They are natural-born storytellers who bring energy and enthusiasm to everything they do.
According to Myers Briggs, I'm a Fox. Of course, I'm kind of happy about this because foxes are quick-witted, strategic, and clever (no bias here). Like foxes, ENTPs are resourceful problem solvers with a knack for finding loopholes and outsmarting others.
ENTPs love a good debate and can often be found playing devil's advocate just for the fun of it. Their wit and charm make them excellent communicators, but their curiosity and need for intellectual stimulation also make them natural learners and innovators.
On the upside, though, both foxes and certain ENTPs are always looking for ways to outsmart and outmaneuver the competition, and they thrive in challenging and dynamic environments.
King of the jungle or king of the boardroom? ESTJs can claim both titles. They are natural-born leaders with a commanding presence and a strong sense of duty and responsibility.
Like lions, they are confident, decisive, and assertive, always ready to take charge and make things happen. They thrive in organized environments with clear-cut rules and systems, making them excellent managers and administrators.
However, they also have a softer side, as lions do with their pride. If you attempt to silence an ESTJ, you're more likely to end up with a roar.
ENFJs are the ultimate social butterflies, much like their spirit animal—the dog. They are often seen as cheerleaders and supporters within their circle of friends and acquaintances. While ENFJS hate bullying, they express their affection through enthusiastic greetings, much like a dog would with a lick and a wag of its tail.
ENFJs' mood often reflects the atmosphere around them, and they strive to ensure everyone feels as good as they do. Highly adaptable, they quickly align with the dynamics and values of the group they're part of, embodying the essence of a "team player." Their loyalty is unwavering, and they expect the same level of commitment in return.
15. Golden Retriever - ESFJ (The Caregiver)
While the typical pet dog exhibits ENFJ traits, some breeds hit differently. Imagine if a Golden Retriever could take a personality test—it would totally be an ESFJ!
Just like these cuddly canines, ESFJs are the life of the party, radiating warmth and friendliness. They're the wonderful friends ready to lend a helping paw, uh, hand, making sure everyone around them is having a great time. It's their mission to spread joy and make sure no one’s left out.
ESFJs' conscientious nature also makes them excellent caregivers and nurturers, always putting others' needs before their own.
The ENTJ personality types are very socially active and have no fear of confrontation. They will be the first to point out if something doesn't sit right with them and are not afraid to stand up for their beliefs.
Much like bears, ENTJs are strong people who like to be in control of their surroundings. They may also appear intimidating on the outside but have a kind heart like the Paris Gellers of the world and a deep sense of loyalty towards their loved ones. Their go-getter attitude makes them natural leaders, able to rally and motivate others toward shared goals.
Embrace Your Inner Animal Personality!
Did you find your animal spirit in the list above? Whether you relate to being a majestic lion or a playful dolphin, our personalities are diverse and complex, with layers to be discovered.
Knowing your personality type and its corresponding animal can provide insight into your strengths and weaknesses. It can also help you understand and appreciate the unique traits of those around you.
And if you didn't find your animal, there's no need to worry—remember that these are just generalizations.
Every person is unique in their own way. Like the MBTI, the nine types in the Enneagram system can also be linked to different animal personalities. Perhaps you will find a better connection there?
Whatever your inner animal spirit may be, embrace it and continue to grow and evolve as an individual.
After all, variety is the spice of life!
