10 Animal Personalities of Mental Health: Which One Are You?
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What Kind of Animal Represents Your Mental Wellbeing?
Have you ever thought about what kind of animal best represents your mental wellbeing? It’s a fun yet insightful way to explore how we navigate life’s ups and downs.
Before we dive in, let’s acknowledge that sometimes animals can become euphemisms for things we don’t intend, so if anything in this list has an unexpected double meaning, please give me the benefit of the doubt! Now, let’s explore ten different mental wellbeing animals and what they might reveal about how you approach your mental health.
Why Understanding Mental Health Matters
Understanding our mental wellbeing is essential for growth. The Bible teaches us to be intentional about our minds and hearts: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." (Romans 12:2)
This journey requires two key aspects:
The How: How are we growing? What resources, habits, and strategies are we using?
The Why: What motivates us to pursue mental and emotional health? Without a sense of purpose, we can lose the drive to keep going.
By looking at different animal archetypes, we can identify strengths, weaknesses, and patterns that influence our growth.
The Goat: The All-In Adventurer
The goat is known for its fearless curiosity and relentless drive. If your mental wellbeing animal is a goat, you are open-minded and eager to try anything that might help.
On a trip to New Zealand, I saw a goat standing on a fence post that was only about 150mm wide. It had all four feet together, balanced effortlessly. When we asked the farmer about it, he said the goat spends most of its day standing like that. No one told the goat it couldn’t do it—so it did.
Strengths of a Goat:
Adventurous & Open-Minded: Willing to try new therapies, diets, or exercises.
Resilient: If one method doesn’t work, you quickly move on to the next.
Energetic & Passionate: Your enthusiasm can be contagious, inspiring others to explore new ways to improve mental wellbeing.
Motivational: You encourage others to push past their comfort zones.
Weaknesses of a Goat:
Lack of Consistency: Always chasing the next big thing can make it hard to stick with one method long enough to see results.
Easily Distracted: You might jump from one trend to another without fully committing.
Burnout Risk: Overloading yourself with too many self-improvement strategies can be exhausting.
Financial Strain: Constantly trying new therapies can become expensive.
Finding Balance as a Goat
Being a goat means you have an incredible drive for growth, a willingness to explore new ideas, and a passion for self-improvement. But without balance, that relentless pursuit of the next best thing can lead to burnout, inconsistency, and frustration.
Here’s how you can channel your adventurous spirit while maintaining stability and effectiveness:
Set Clear Goals – Before jumping into the next trend, ask yourself: Will this help me in the long run? Focus on sustainable practices rather than short-term fixes.
Stick with What Works – If something is helping, give it time. Set a minimum trial period (e.g., 30-60 days) before deciding if it’s effective.
Create a Core Routine – While experimenting is great, having a non-negotiable daily practice (like prayer, exercise, or journaling) can keep you grounded.
Limit the Number of New Experiments – Instead of trying five new things at once, introduce one change at a time and evaluate its impact.
Be Financially Wise – Not every therapy, supplement, or wellness trend is worth the cost. Prioritise investments that align with your long-term health.
Embrace Rest – Adventure is great, but even goats need to pause. Schedule intentional rest to avoid burnout and decision fatigue.
Being a goat is a gift—your energy and passion can inspire those around you. But balance is key. Stay curious, but also stay committed to what truly benefits your wellbeing.
The Cat: The Skeptical Observer
The cat is the opposite of the goat. Instead of diving in, cats sit back and analyse everything before making a move. They are naturally skeptical, cautious, and prefer logic over trends.
We once had a cat that had only ever eaten canned cat food. One day, we brought home fresh fish and put it in his bowl, expecting him to be thrilled. Instead, he sniffed it, looked up at us with an offended expression, and walked away. Even though we knew it was better for him, he refused because it was unfamiliar.
Strengths of a Cat:
Not Easily Fooled: They don’t trust something just because it’s popular.
Boundary Protectors: They won’t exhaust themselves chasing every new wellness trend.
Research-Driven: They check the science before believing in something.
Scam Detectors: They can spot a gimmick a mile away.
Self-Sufficient: They rely on logic and reason rather than external validation.
Weaknesses of a Cat:
Overly Skeptical: They may reject good ideas just because they resemble past gimmicks.
Resistant to Change: Even when something is well-researched, they may hesitate to try it.
Paralysis by Analysis: Too much thinking, not enough doing.
Cynical Reputation: While they see themselves as realists, others might find them negative.
Missed Opportunities for Growth: They might overlook valuable tools just because they seem trendy.
Finding Balance as a Cat
Being a cat means you are discerning, logical, and independent. You question trends, rely on research, and protect your boundaries. But if skepticism goes too far, it can keep you from growth and meaningful change.
To stay balanced:
Stay Open-Minded – Just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s wrong.
Test Before Dismissing – Give new ideas a trial period before rejecting them.
Balance Thinking with Action – Avoid getting stuck in endless analysis without taking steps forward.
Recognise the Value of Experience – Some things must be lived, not just studied.
Seek Wise Counsel – Even the most independent minds benefit from trusted perspectives.
Your discernment is a strength, but wisdom isn’t just about avoiding mistakes—it’s about embracing what truly works.
The Tortoise: The Steady and Resilient One
If your mental wellbeing animal is a tortoise, you are steady, patient, and built for endurance. You don’t chase instant results or the latest life-changing trends. Instead, you trust the process—whether that’s therapy, faith, exercise, or daily habits. You’re not about dramatic breakthroughs but about sustainable progress.
The first time I ever saw tortoises in the wild was in Athens, near the Acropolis and Parthenon. These tortoises, about the size of a dinner plate, were wandering all over the place. Every time someone saw one, they’d try to rescue it—picking it up and placing it near the water, thinking it was a turtle that had lost its way.
But the locals kept saying, "You don’t need to rescue them. They’re tortoises, not turtles. They belong here."
That’s the thing about tortoises: they’re resilient. They don’t need to be saved. They keep going, no matter the terrain. They can travel miles inland, survive harsh environments, and thrive in the long run.
Strengths of the Tortoise
Strong habits – While others chase quick solutions, you build routines that last.
Avoids burnout – You pace yourself, ensuring long-term health.
Encouraging persistence – You don’t expect overnight results, so you don’t give up easily.
Thinks long-term – You have a clear vision for the future and know that slow, steady growth adds up over time.
Brings stability – In a world obsessed with fast results, your faithfulness and patience inspire others.
Weaknesses of the Tortoise
Slow to try new things – You might hesitate even when something could help.
Resistant to change – Long-standing habits make it hard to switch things up.
Can lose motivation – Even a tortoise can get frustrated when progress feels too slow.
Too cautious at times – Being careful is good, but sometimes faith requires a bold step forward.
If you're a tortoise, keep those steady habits, but make sure you leave room for God to surprise you. The race isn’t always about speed—sometimes, it's about finishing well.
Finding Balance as a Tortoise
Being a tortoise means you are steady, disciplined, and built for long-term growth. You don’t chase quick fixes—you build habits that last. But slow progress can sometimes lead to stagnation or hesitation to embrace change.
To stay balanced:
Be Open to New Growth – Long-term habits are great, but don’t ignore opportunities for change.
Take Small Risks – Slow and steady wins the race, but sometimes bold steps are needed.
Watch for Discouragement – Progress may feel slow, but every step forward matters.
Let God Surprise You – Stability is good, but faith often requires flexibility.
Your consistency is a gift, but don’t let caution keep you from stepping into something new. The race isn’t just about speed—it’s about finishing well.
The Dog: The Relational Healer
If your mental wellbeing animal is a dog, you heal best in community. Relationships are your lifeline—you find strength in friends, mentors, and meaningful conversations. You process emotions by talking things out, and you’re naturally drawn to helping others heal too.
We have a dog called Watson, and honestly, it weirds me out how much he follows me around.
I’ll be sitting in my office, and he’s right there.
I’ll get up to grab a coffee—he follows.’ll step outside to check the mail—he’s there.
It doesn’t matter where I go, he just follows. And the wild thing? He doesn’t want anything from me. He’s not waiting for a treat (though he’s happy when bacon falls on the floor). He just wants to be there.
That’s the essence of a dog-type person—they find joy in relationships. They don’t just want something from people; they just want to be with them.
Strengths of the Dog
Emotionally intelligent – You understand your emotions and others’ emotions well.
Strong support system – You don’t go it alone and encourage others to seek help too.
Encouraging and uplifting – You normalize asking for help, making it easier for others to do the same.
Empathetic and caring – You genuinely love people, and your kindness heals both you and them.
Thrives in connection – Whether it’s in church, support groups, or friendships, you find meaning in relationships.
"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up." (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
Weaknesses of the Dog
Can be too dependent – While community is great, you need to be able to stand on your own too.
Might neglect personal needs – Caring for others is noble, but not at the cost of your own well-being.
Prone to people-pleasing – Because connection is so important to you, saying no can be difficult.
Might struggle with solitude – Silence and self-reflection can feel uncomfortable, but they’re necessary for growth.
Finding Balance as a Dog
Being a dog means you thrive in connection. You build strong relationships, support others, and create a sense of belonging wherever you go. But relying too much on others can make solitude and self-care difficult.
To stay balanced:
Cultivate Independence – Relationships are vital, but learn to stand strong on your own too.
Prioritise Self-Care – Supporting others is great, but don’t neglect your own needs.
Set Healthy Boundaries – Saying no is not rejection; it’s protecting your well-being.
Embrace Quiet Moments – Solitude can feel uncomfortable, but God often speaks in stillness.
Your heart for people is a gift, but don’t forget to care for yourself too. True connection includes both community and personal growth.
The Owl: The Deep Thinker
If your mental wellbeing animal is an owl, you approach mental health like a scholar. You don’t just take advice at face value—you research it, fact-check it, and compare different perspectives before making a decision. You feel safe when you have knowledge and a plan, and you pride yourself on being well-informed.
Unlike the dog, who thrives on relationships, or the tortoise, who finds comfort in routine, the owl seeks understanding. You want to know:
Why does this work?
How does it work?
What’s the best approach before I commit?
I always get a little bit freaked out when I see an owl in the wild. They’re rare, so when you’re out camping and you spot one just staring at you, it almost feels like they can read your mind.
They look way too wise for a bird. And to make it even creepier, their main question is "Who?"—as if they’re constantly prying deeper into people’s lives. It’s like they know something the rest of us don’t.
But that’s exactly what owl-type people are like:
They watch, they think, they analyze—until they know exactly what’s going on.
Strengths of the Owl
Well-informed – You don’t take advice blindly; you research, seek truth, and help others make educated decisions.
Thoughtful decision-making – You take time to weigh the pros and cons, ensuring you don’t rush into bad choices.
Deep thinker – You love digging deeper—not in a conspiracy-theory way, but as a truth seeker.
Committed to growth – You see learning and development as a lifelong journey, refining your faith and mental health along the way.
Self-aware – Your deep reflection gives you a strong understanding of your emotions and thought processes.
"The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out." (Proverbs 18:15)
Weaknesses of the Owl
Overthinking instead of acting – You might get stuck in analysis mode, always planning but never implementing.
Lost in research – You could spend weeks or months reading about a solution but never actually try it.
Decision paralysis – Because you know so many options, choosing the best one can feel overwhelming.
Too much knowledge, not enough experience – At some point, no amount of research can replace action—you have to actually do the work.
Finding Balance as an Owl
Being an owl means you are thoughtful, analytical, and wise. You seek truth, make informed decisions, and help others separate fact from fiction. But too much analysis can lead to inaction and decision paralysis.
To stay balanced:
Set a Deadline for Decisions – Research is valuable, but at some point, you need to take action.
Trust Your Instincts – Not everything requires exhaustive study—some wisdom comes from experience.
Limit Overthinking – Ask yourself, Is this research leading to growth, or just delaying action?
Apply What You Learn – Knowledge is powerful, but it only transforms when put into practice.
Your depth of thought is a strength, but don’t let seeking the perfect choice keep you from moving forward. True wisdom isn’t just knowing—it’s acting in faith.
The Goldfish: The Here-and-Now Optimist
The goldfish is the ultimate optimist.
They bounce back from everything.
They don’t overthink mistakes.
They don’t dwell on negativity.
They enjoy life in the moment.
While the owl overanalyses and the dog leans into connection, the goldfish keeps it simple.
They don’t get bogged down in regret or carry emotional baggage. They just keep swimming—and their carefree spirit is a gift to the world.
I’ll be honest—I’m envious of goldfish people.
I know someone in my life who’s 100% a goldfish. No matter what happens, they just shake it off and keep moving. They’re delightful, beautiful, and endearing. They don’t dwell on angst, frustration, or bitterness—they just live life with joy.
I don’t know how they do it, but I love having them in my world.
Strengths of the Goldfish
Naturally lets things go – They don’t carry resentment or stay stuck in hardship.
Optimistic and hopeful – They focus on the bright side and refuse to be weighed down by life’s struggles.
Lives in the moment – They don’t dwell on the past or stress about the future—they enjoy now.
Keeps things simple – When others spiral into anxiety, they help keep things light and joyful.
Brings joy to others – Their energy is infectious, and they lift people up just by being around.
"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22)
Weaknesses of the Goldfish
Avoids emotional depth – They brush off emotions instead of processing them.
Struggles with long-term growth – Because they live in the moment, they sometimes forget about future goals.
Moves on too quickly – Not everything should be forgotten immediately—some things need reflection and growth.
Might seem shallow or detached – They may avoid deep conversations because they’re uncomfortable sitting in heaviness.
Finding Balance as a Goldfish
If you’re a goldfish, you bring light to the world, and we love you for it.
But here’s the challenge:
Pause before moving on. Not everything needs to be shaken off instantly.
Let yourself feel. Write things down, reflect, and give space for emotional depth.
Find a balance between lightness and depth. You don’t have to be heavy, but don’t be afraid of deep conversations either.
To the goldfish people out there, keep shining, laughing, and bringing joy—but don’t be afraid to slow down and reflect when needed.
The Bear: The Deep Introvert
If your mental wellbeing animal is a bear, you are the introvert of the mental health world. While dogs thrive on connection and goldfish keep things light, the bear finds peace in solitude.
Bears process things internally rather than seeking validation from others. They are deep thinkers, self-reflective, and often creative. If a bear is going to have a conversation, it better be meaningful—no shallow small talk.
I’ve never seen a bear in the wild, but I really want to one day. They’re just cool animals.
What I love most about bears? How they handle winter.
Winter comes, and instead of enduring the cold, they just find a spot, curl up, and sleep through it. That resonates with me.
Sometimes, when I get people-ed out, I just want to hibernate too. There’s a bit of a bear in me, and if you relate to that, you’re not alone.
Strengths of the Bear
Deeply reflective – You process emotions at a deep level, which is essential for growth.
Understands emotional needs – You know when you need space, rest, and quiet, and you protect that time.
Avoids unnecessary stress – You don’t overcommit, helping you stay balanced.
Highly creative and philosophical – Many artists, writers, and deep thinkers have bear-like tendencies, retreating to create.
Comfortable in solitude – While many people fear being alone, you find strength in it.
"Be still, and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)
Weaknesses of the Bear
Might withdraw too much – While solitude is good, too much isolation can lead to loneliness.
Struggles to ask for help – Bears process things alone, so they may not reach out when they really need support.
Social anxiety – If they avoid socialising for too long, it can become overwhelming when they do.
Slow to open up – Relationships take time for bears, and they prefer depth over quantity.
Finding Balance as a Bear
If you’re a bear, thank you for being in the Church and in the world—we need you.
Here are a few ways to challenge yourself:
Make space for relationships – You don’t have to be at every social event, but connect with one or two trusted people.
Set small social goals – If groups drain you, spend time with just one person for an hour or two.
Lean into community without losing yourself – You’re a bear—be the best bear you can be, but don’t forget you’re still part of the bigger family.
The Chameleon: The Master of Adaptability
The chameleon is a master of adaptability.
They’re emotionally intelligent.
They’re socially aware.
They know how to fit in.
Some people naturally adjust their approach depending on the situation, making others feel comfortable. They thrive in different spaces, whether that’s a new job, a new friendship group, or a different culture. While the bear wants solitude and the dog craves relationships, the chameleon seeks fluidity.
I feel terrible telling this story, but the only time I’ve had an encounter with a chameleon was at the Singapore Zoo.
We were looking at a sloth, and I accidentally stepped on a chameleon’s tail.
I know—that’s awful.
But here’s the thing—I didn’t even see it. That chameleon was so good at being a chameleon, it was completely invisible until I stepped on it.
(He’s fine. Everything’s fine.)
But that’s the nature of chameleon-type people—they blend in so well that sometimes, even they struggle to see themselves.
Strengths of the Chameleon
Creative problem solver – They think outside the box and adjust quickly to new challenges.
Emotionally intelligent – They pick up on social cues, making them great at reading people.
Thrives in many settings – Whether at work, in friendships, or in different cultures, they can blend in and succeed.
Sees multiple perspectives – They’re open-minded and understand where different people are coming from.
Flexible and adaptable – They don’t cling to rigid thinking, allowing them to grow and evolve.
"I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some." (1 Corinthians 9:22)
Weaknesses of the Chameleon
Identity struggles – Always adapting can make it hard to know who you really are.
Suppressing true emotions – They might push down how they actually feel to keep the peace.
Struggles with authenticity – In trying to fit in with everyone, they sometimes feel like they belong nowhere.
Emotionally exhausted – Constantly adjusting to different people can be draining.
Lacks personal direction – When you’re used to being what others need, it’s hard to know what you need.
Finding Balance as a Chameleon
If you’re a chameleon, you bring something unique and valuable to the world.
But here’s how you can grow in your identity:
Define your core values – Who are you when no one’s watching?
Check in with yourself – Ask: Am I being authentic, or just trying to fit in?
Speak your true perspective – Instead of matching the crowd’s opinion, say what you really think.
Set emotional boundaries – You don’t have to adjust for everyone—protect your own emotional energy.
Spend time alone – If you’re always adapting, solitude can help you reconnect with yourself.
We need chameleons. God loves chameleons. But make sure you love who God made you to be too.
The Squirrel: The Ultimate Planner
If your mental wellbeing animal is a squirrel, you are the ultimate planner.
You think ahead.
You prepare for worst-case scenarios.
You keep everything as organised as possible.
You’re the type of person who brings a checklist on holiday, reminds everyone about deadlines, and keeps a first-aid kit on hand—just in case.
While the goldfish lives in the moment and the chameleon adapts to whatever happens, the squirrel anticipates.
I’ve never seen a squirrel in real life—I’ve never been to the States or Canada, where I think they mostly live.But I saw this documentary about a guy who bought a house… and there was a squirrel living inside his walls.
When they cracked open a hole near the PowerPoint, about 10,000 nuts came pouring out. That’s squirrel energy—they’re always preparing, always storing up, always ready for what’s next.
Strengths of the Squirrel
Super organised – You keep things structured, which is great for mental wellbeing.
Detail-oriented – You notice what others miss and make sure things get done.
Reliable and responsible – Others can depend on you.
Great at anticipating problems – You rarely get caught off guard and are prepared for anything.
"Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise!" (Proverbs 6:6)
Weaknesses of the Squirrel
Overplanning – You struggle to relax because you’re always thinking ahead.
Anxiety-driven preparation – You plan, but sometimes it’s rooted in fear rather than faith.
Perfectionism can be exhausting – If nothing feels quite ready, it can lead to burnout.
Struggles with flexibility – When things don’t go according to plan, it can be overwhelming.
Finding Balance as a Squirrel
Planning is great—but control isn’t possible.
Schedule unstructured time – Let yourself enjoy the moment.
Practice mindfulness – Focus on the present, not just the future.
Remember: Not everything has to be perfect.
Trust God and others – Ask yourself, What’s the worst that can happen?
Being a squirrel is a blessing, but it can also be a burden if you try to do it in your own strength.
We love you, squirrels—but God’s got this, too.
The Elephant: The Deep Feeler
The elephant is the one who feels deeply.
If you’re an elephant, you remember everything—not just events, but emotions, words spoken over you, and even the unspoken atmosphere of a room.
While the goldfish moves on quickly and the chameleon adapts, the elephant holds on.
We went to Thailand, and my kids stood between two massive elephants—animals that could easily crush them if they wanted to.
But instead? They were completely safe. That’s what I love about elephants—they’re strong but gentle.
That’s also what elephant-type people bring to the world.
Strengths of the Elephant
Deeply compassionate – They feel with others and offer genuine care.
Builds meaningful relationships – They form strong, lasting bonds and are deeply loyal.
People trust them – They’re the kind of friends who listen deeply.
Highly resilient – They carry emotional weight but still push through.
Wise and thoughtful – Their emotional insights make them great advisors, mentors, and friends.
"Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." (Romans 12:15)
Weaknesses of the Elephant
Holds onto the past – Letting go can be hard, even when it’s no longer helpful.
Struggles with forgiveness – Whether it’s themselves or others, they replay past mistakes.
Takes on others’ pain – Sometimes at the cost of their own mental wellbeing.
Can be overprotective – Wanting to shield loved ones from difficulty instead of letting them grow.
Emotionally overwhelmed – They absorb so much that it’s hard to separate their own emotions from others.
Finding Balance as an Elephant
If you’re an elephant, thank you for being in our faith communities—we need you.
But here’s your challenge:
Practice letting go.
Forgive yourself and others.
Remember: Jesus carries burdens, not you.
Embrace now—don’t live in the past.
You’re strong, wise, and deeply caring—but be kind to yourself, too.
Conclusion: Embracing Who God Made You to Be
Your mental wellbeing animal isn’t just a fun personality quiz—it’s a reminder that God created you uniquely. Whether you're a deep-thinking owl, a resilient tortoise, an adventurous goat, or a big-hearted elephant, every strength and challenge in your personality is part of His intentional design.
Instead of comparing yourself to others, embrace who you are. If you’re a dog, lean into relationships. If you’re a bear, value your solitude. If you’re a chameleon, use your adaptability wisely. God isn’t asking you to be someone else—He’s asking you to be fully you, in Him.
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:10)
A Final Encouragement
No matter where you are in your mental wellbeing journey, you are not alone. God sees you, He knows you, and He cares deeply about your struggles, your growth, and your healing.
Take time to thank God for how He’s wired you. Lean into your strengths, work on your weaknesses, and trust that He’s guiding you toward wholeness.
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