Resfeber and Personality Styles: What Back-to-School Jitters Teach Us About Facing the Unknown
You can see it on kids’ faces at the beginning of each school year. Some run to the bus, while others hesitate at the curb. That moment reveals more than just excitement or nerves, it reveals personality.
Adults are the same way. We might not carry backpacks, but we still experience those same back-to-school jitters. Starting a new project, leading a team, or stepping into the unknown can evoke the exact mix of anticipation and anxiety that the Swedes describe with a single word: resfeber.
That restless rush before a new beginning isn’t accidental. It’s shaped by your personality style.
There are four main styles—Eagles, Parrots, Doves, and Owls—and understanding your natural strengths and challenges is at the core of Personality Intelligence. It can also change how you approach change.
Eagles: Driven to Win
Eagles stride into new territory with confidence and ambition. They see new beginnings as challenges to conquer. But too many rules or restrictions can frustrate them, limiting their drive.
Parrots: Energized by Adventure
Parrots exude boundless enthusiasm. They see change as exciting and full of opportunities. Their biggest fear is that school will be dull and drain their energy.
Doves: Focused on Belonging
Doves seek connection. Whether it’s finding a lunch table in school or supportive colleagues at work, they want safety and acceptance. What worries them most is feeling excluded.
Owls: Anchored in Clarity
Owls crave structure. They want to know the plan, the rules, and what success looks like. They thrive on preparation, but ambiguity can leave them anxious.
The Lesson for Adults
The first-day jitters never really go away. Eagles fear losing control. Parrots fear negativity. Doves fear disconnection. Owls fear chaos.
What changes as we grow, is our awareness. When we understand our style, we can turn fear into opportunity. Resfeber isn’t something to avoid, it’s the signal that growth is about to happen.
About the Author
Merrick Rosenberg is the author of Personality Intelligence: Master the Art of Being You, The Chameleon, and many other books for adults, students, and kids. He is the creator of the Eagle, Parrot, Dove, and Owl personality approach. As an award-winning speaker and President of Take Flight Learning, Merrick teaches people how to understand themselves and others through the lens of personality, because when you know your style, you unlock your path.
