Are You the Fun Police or the Grammar Police?
We all have an internal Police Officer…not the kind with a badge and baton, but the part of us that subconsciously enforces our environment to match what we need most.
In the world of Personality Intelligence, I use four birds to represent the core styles: the Eagle, Parrot, Dove, and Owl. Each has its own set of priorities. And in everyday life, whether at work, at home, or even in casual conversation, those priorities quietly turn us into a kind of “police officer,” patrolling for anything that threatens our internal sense of order.
So… which one are you?
🦅 Eagles: The Focus Police
Eagles thrive on results and efficiency. They become the Focus Police by keeping conversations on track and people zeroed in on the goal.
You’ll hear them say:
- “Let’s get back to the point.”
- “What’s the takeaway here?”
- “What should we do first?”
When someone veers off course or starts storytelling without a purpose, the Eagle steps in. To them, losing focus is a violation and they’ll flag it fast.
🦜 Parrots: The Fun Police
Parrots bring energy, creativity, and enthusiasm. When things get too serious or intense, the sirens go off. Parrots are the Fun Police, making sure everyone’s enjoying the ride.
They’ll say:
- “Let’s lighten the mood.”
- “I love this idea!”
- “Have I got a story for you…”
Parrots don’t just enforce joy, they spark it. When energy dips or things get tense, they inject humor, storytelling, or a much-needed dose of fun.
🕊 Doves: The Harmony Police
Doves are wired for peace, cooperation, and emotional safety. When conflict flares or tension builds, they become the Harmony Police, softly guiding people back into alignment.
They might offer:
- “Let’s all take a breath.”
- “We’re on the same team.”
- “What I think they’re trying to say is…”
Doves smooth rough edges, clarify misunderstandings, and work behind the scenes to keep the emotional temperature in check. When things feel out of sync, they restore calm.
🦉 Owls: The Grammar, Logic, and Fact Police
Owls value accuracy, structure, and correctness. When someone stretches the truth, misquotes a stat, or misuses a word, the Owl’s inner siren lights up.
Expect to hear:
- “Actually, that’s not quite right…”
- “Technically, the policy says…”
- “Let’s be precise here.”
Owls are on a quiet mission to get it right. They’ll tweak the spreadsheet, clean up the group email, or gently correct a detail that doesn’t add up. For them, truth and clarity matter.
Why This Matters
Recognizing your inner “officer” helps you understand how you show up and what you’re unconsciously trying to protect. More importantly, it helps you recognize what others are trying to preserve:
- Eagles aren’t being pushy. They’re protecting focus.
- Parrots aren’t trying to derail progress. They’re adding life to the moment.
- Doves aren’t avoiding issues. They’re preserving peace.
- Owls aren’t nitpicking. They’re safeguarding truth.
So, the next time someone “pulls you over” in a meeting, a conversation, or a family dinner, pause and ask: What are they trying to protect and how can I honor their style?
When we stop clashing and start recognizing each other’s core needs, everything gets easier and drama fades.
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.
