The lion is bold, independent, confident and driven.
Many of us are familiar with the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, which identifies 16 different personalities based on introverted and extroverted tendencies, among many other traits. And while I’ve found this to be a brilliant tool to understand and appreciate the prominent characteristics in ourselves and those around us, trying to keep 16 different personality types straight sounds like a lot of work to me. So, I like the test with only four – hailing from the animal kingdom – presented in a children’s book.
In the late 1990s, Gary Smalley and John Trent, both with a background in counseling, wrote the children’s book, “The Treasure Tree,” to help little ones understand themselves and get along with others. The otter, golden retriever, beaver and lion have very specific characteristics in The Treasure Tree, but I find they really show their true nature at the airport.
For example, if you are an otter, you are playful, energetic, creative and fun-loving. You turn everything into a game and probably make up voices to entertain yourself when reading a story or a menu. Lively otters seem to always be in motion, bouncing around and making new friends because they believe EVERYONE is their friend, whether they are standing in a long line at the airport Starbucks or preparing to board.
They likely arrive with plenty of time to spare at their gate but can be the last to actually take their seats on the plane as they are having great conversations or helping others get their oversized carry-on luggage into the overhead compartment. In the event of a pressure change in the cabin, sure they’ll put on their oxygen mask, but they’ll somehow make this fun to lighten the situation. “Pretend you’re Tom Cruise in Top Gun!” they might suggest to a nervous flyer. Those who don’t want to chat should probably change seats.
The golden retriever loves the otter, but then the golden retriever loves everyone. As you’d expect, these are the gentlest, kindest animals – like comfort dogs. They are dependable, caring and harmony-seeking sweethearts that want everyone to feel welcome and be able to participate. At a James Taylor concert, these are the ones who are the first to turn on their smartphone flashlight and begin swaying to “You’ve Got a Friend,” with outstretched arms above their head.
At the airport, they arrive early so they can tend to those around them. When seated next to a golden retriever, you can expect they will be looking out for you, making sure you don’t miss your beverage and pretzels and that you have enough room on the arm rest. If you need an extra napkin, they will give you theirs or the wet wipes they brought with them. If a baby is crying next to them, they will not be annoyed. They will become completely engaged to help both baby and parent feel safe and comforted. It’s hard not to love a golden retriever.
Now, the beaver, as a child, is what every parent wants. The beaver is an organized, rule-follower that loves structure and delights in neatness and systems that keep the order. The beaver’s sock drawer has no strays. Every pair is matched and placed with precision. In the workplace or any place, they are the ones who raise the bar and set the standards. High quality and precision are very important to the beaver. When it comes to getting things done, there is a right way, and they will make sure everyone knows that.
But the beaver does not like to be rushed – no shooting from the hip. They require time to process and analyze EVERYTHING. You don’t want a beaver in the emergency exit seat. But, as a passenger next to you? The best. Every gadget they brought will be neatly tucked away in its special place and they will not be spilling over into your space. Beavers will arrive early to the airport and will promptly line up in the appropriate grouping and zone when called.
The lion is bold, independent, confident and driven. Lions are natural leaders and will want to be in charge and often will take charge, even if no one asks them to do so. They are quick to assess situations and make decisions. They detest indecision. They love to jump into action and pounce on problems and projects. These are the animals that get stuff done and they will compete with anyone or anything in their sphere.
At the airport, they will not arrive early, for that will make them very uncomfortable and agitated if they have time to spare – time that would have allowed them to complete six other tasks. They don’t have a lot of patience, and they hate repetitive work. On board, they will not be following along with the flight attendants as they point out features on the plane. They will, however, be ready to hop into the cockpit, in case they’re needed.
In “The Treasure Tree,” we learn that no animal is better than another. They are all precious creatures who offer important gifts and perspectives. And each is a highly valued member of the animal kingdom. At least that’s what the golden retrievers will tell you. FBN
By Bonnie Stevens, FBN
Bonnie Stevens is the editor of FBN. She is a career journalist and public relations consultant. She can be reached at bonnie.stevens@gmail.com.