People love to describe others by comparing them to animals. Someone who is graceful is like a cat…if you are fiercely determined, you are a bulldog…conformity makes you a lemming…and stubbornness, a mule.
As you can see, it’s not so much about how we look—it’s about how we act. And how we act is what determines whether or not we accomplish our goals, whether that means being less impulsive and saving more money, overcoming shyness, being a more patient and thoughtful friend or whatever we’re trying to achieve, according to life coach and regular Daily Health News contributor Lauren Zander.
So I want to ask you today—have you ever considered what sort of animal describes you?
Don’t worry—whichever “animal type” you are, you’re not necessarily stuck with it. Focusing on a new one can help you get what you want out of life. For instance, if you tend to be fearful—a chicken—and you’re trying to find a new job, then thinking of yourself as a lion might help. And you don’t have to be as wise as an owl to master this technique.
The first task, says Zander, is to determine your current animal type. How would your friends describe you? Go ahead and ask them, if it helps! Pick one to five traits that define you, and then think of which animal those best match. Maybe people would call you a deer because you’re skittish. Or perhaps you’re more like a bull—strong and confident but at times stubborn and confrontational. Or you might be as loyal as a puppy.
Now give some deep thought as to whether that “animal type” serves you well. What goals are you currently trying to achieve? And is your animal type helping or hurting? If it could be hurting you in certain situations, then it may be time to imagine yourself as a different type of animal.
For instance, maybe you are a lion—someone who takes charge and is effective. Perhaps those traits keep you disciplined and allow you to clean the house until it sparkles every week, but you’re having trouble showing your warmer, more playful side around your children or grandchildren. How to change this: The next time you are around the little ones, think to yourself, Right now I’m not going to be a lion. I’m going to be a monkey—a creature that is always up for fun.
Another example: Let’s say that your general nature is to be a people-pleaser…even docile…basically, a sheep. While this shields you from controversy, it unfortunately also means that your opinions tend to be drowned out and ignored. Not good! Better: In social or professional situations where your interests really are at stake, make a conscious decision to imagine yourself as an elephant, says Zander—an animal that makes a physical statement when it walks into a room and surely isn’t afraid to speak up!
Here are some other ways to switch. If you’re…
A busy mom who feels overwhelmed: Picture yourself as a terrier who never runs out of energy and can change directions instantly.
Wired and need to relax: Become a cat, stretching languorously and lying down for a rest on the couch.
Hoping to seem more intriguing and not be taken for granted: Try thinking of yourself as a fox—intelligent, a little unpredictable and definitely not clingy.
Snapping out of a bad mood: How about being a hummingbird, flitting from blossom to blossom, while chirping cheerily?
Once you decide on an animal that can be the most help to you, read up on it, post pictures of it in your home, make a collage of the animal in action and/or make a photo of that animal your “wallpaper” on your laptop, tablet or phone, so it’ll serve as a constant reminder.
“An animal strategy is a fun way to think outside the box, using the power of your mind to enhance the quality of your life,” says Zander.
Inspired? Comment below and share which animal you are—and which animal you’d like to become!
