Optical Illusions That Can Reveal People's True Character

If you see a landscape, good for you! That means you have plenty of get-up-and-go. You live life in the moment and are up for new adventures. And routine is probably a total bummer. Instead, you like to mix up your activities so that you never do the same thing two days in a row. But some people see something else entirely...

There’s also a face hidden in this image. Can you see it? It’s looking toward the bottom of the frame. If that’s the most obvious thing about the illustration to you, then you like to be organized. Yes, you’re a stickler for planning, and knowing exactly what you’ll be doing tomorrow and beyond gives you a sense of security.

This illusion identifies which part of your brain is dominant. If the animal you see in the illustration is a squirrel, then it’s said that you’re a logical thinker and great at analyzing things. That’s a sign of the left hemisphere of your brain being the one that does a lot of the conscious work.

Conversely, if a duck pops out at you, then the right hemisphere of your brain is the one with the greatest influence. Your talents revolve around being creative and artistic rather than methodical and scientific. And don’t worry, as this doesn’t actually mean that one side of your brain is disconnected from the other.

Stare at this multi-faceted illusion for long enough, and it should reveal three distinct images. There’s a baby here, for instance, and seeing this vision first suggests you frequently love to carve out alone time – so don’t let people make you feel bad for not wanting to paint the town red.

There’s also a pair of lovers looking out over a bay beneath some trees. If you were immediately drawn to them, you’re more inclined to be loyal to a small group of friends and shy away from the commotion of crowds and big parties. But if the trees were the most prominent thing to you, then maybe you’re full of energy. You take life’s challenges in your stride, too, and live for variety.

What stood out to you first in this image? If all that you saw was the cliff, you probably have a positive outlook and so can tackle pretty much anything life throws at you. But maybe you saw the white cat curled up on the clifftop? That suggests you’re someone who dislikes change and prefers to keep their emotions in check. People can rely on any promises you make, though.

But if the first thing that jumped out at you was a face, then that’s a sign of creativity. You see opportunity all around you and are highly inquisitive. Learning more about the world is key for you, as is finding contentment. Maybe you’re also naturally intuitive with a fondness for literature, poetry, music and art.

What did you see first here? Well, if it was the maid cleaning the floor, it’s likely that you’re great at finding answers to tricky issues. That means friends often come to you for words of wisdom – and for good reason. If the face with a ruffled collar immediately struck you, on the other hand, then you probably march to the beat of your own drum, and that’s no bad thing. But finding the skulls first says that you’re fearless and a risk-taker.

If you saw the man in bed first, you may be a worrywart. Then there are the two knights. If you spotted them straight off the bat, then you probably depend on a strong support network. And while seeing the ballet dancers to begin with may mean you’re secretly a hopeless romantic, that’s not necessarily the case if you initially focused on the mustachioed man. Instead, you’re more likely to be a creative who looks at things as a whole. Finer details may flummox you.

What is it that you can see in this illustration? Perhaps a face is most prominent, and if that’s the case then you’re likely laid-back and approachable. People may feel comfortable unloading their problems on you, too, as you’re sympathetic and genuinely care.

But maybe that’s not what you spot at all. Instead, you may see a witch waving a wand at a figure kneeling before her. That means you’re ambitious in all your endeavors. Whatever the task at hand, you have to be better at it than anyone else. But while it’s good to have lofty aspirations, don’t let yourself burn out trying to achieve them.

Sometimes our eyes can play tricks on us. Take this illusion, for example. There’s something about the color and make-up of the bubbles here that may make it appear as if they’re moving. Well, don’t worry, you’re not going mad – not according to us, anyway.

There’s nothing wrong with your eyes, either, but just more going on in your brain. You see, noticing the bubbles whirling around suggests that you’re musically inclined. You may be a virtuoso or just have a good ear. Either way, you have a great sense of groove – and probably some nifty moves on the dancefloor.

This is one of the most famous optical illusions illusions in the world. Created in this form by William Ely Hill, it dates all the way back to the early 20th century, although it may have existed in other incarnations even before that. And research carried out by two professors of psychology suggests that people see different things in the picture depending on how old they are. Find out which one you see.

The illustration is called “My Wife and my Mother in Law,” and academics at Flinders University in Adelaide showed it to 393 people aged from 18 to 68. The study showed that the youngest 10 percent of participants saw a young woman peering over her right shoulder (shown in the left image). The eldest 10 percent, by contrast, saw an old woman looking toward the bottom left of the frame (shown in the right image). The young woman’s chin is the elderly lady’s nose. See it now?

Still not sure whether you’re an introvert or extrovert? Well, this illusion should clear things up. If the first thing you saw in this image was the saxophonist, then you’re an extrovert. That’s right: you love to socialize and often are the life and soul of any gathering. People fall over themselves to be buddies with you, in fact. But be careful not to burn out. Remember to rest once in a while to recharge your batteries.

If you initially spotted the outline of a face, by contrast, then you’re probably an introvert. Parties or crowds and excess noise can leave you feeling run-down both physically and emotionally. You’re more of a homebody, then, who doesn’t need to be told twice about burning the candle at both ends – well, unless you often stay up late binging your favorite shows.

Through sleep-heavy eyes, you pour yourself a morning cup of joe. Then after settling down at your desk for a morning’s work, you look down and realize you’re not alone. Staring up from inside your mug is an owl – yes, an owl. Most people spot this illusion straight away. And once you’ve seen it, it’s almost impossible to wake up and smell – or see – the coffee for what it really is. But why?

Well, as Vox reporter Brian Resnick puts it, “Our brains unconsciously bend our perception of reality to meet our desires or expectations. And they fill in gaps using our past experiences.” In other words, because your brain has seen lots of owls before, it’s relatively difficult to rewire how you perceive this photo. What may help, though, is knowing that someone apparently plopped two O-shaped potato chips into their mug to make this beautiful illusion. Does that change how you see it at all?

Notice the face of a beautiful woman? That also reveals something about your personality – and no, we’re not talking about being prone to a wandering eye. In this instance, seeing the woman in this image means that you’re generally tuned into your immediate environment. This helps make you a sound judge in many situations, and your gut reactions are usually spot on.

But what if you can only see flowers? Well, apparently, you like to leave the fast pace of everyday life behind and relax in nature. This doesn’t mean you normally take the world around you for granted, mind. And if you’re ever feeling a little frazzled, you now know just what you need to do.

Oleg Shuplyak, an architect by trade, likes to make mind-bending art that blends famous faces with more everyday imagery. And his work is said to reveal your least desirable characteristics. Take this portrait as an example. What jumps out at you first? If it’s Shakespeare, then apparently people are put off by your self-centeredness. Or did you spot the lady lying on the bed instead? Well, we have more bad news: your slapdash approach to life may be harming your romantic prospects.

If your eyes were immediately drawn to the man in a turban, though, that’s not much better, as it’s possible you’re the covetous type. Finally, if you spotted the rose on the floor, then your naive nature is potentially off-putting. That’s according to an analysis by website YourTango, not us – so please don’t shoot the messenger...

Normally, if you tell someone that you can see a big blue cat, they’ll probably offer you medication – or at the very least an eye examination. But if you spot a feline form in this image, it actually means that you’re a realist. You’re down to earth when it comes to life, and by seeing the bigger picture you’re able to better plot your way through.

If the mouse is most obvious to you, on the other hand, then you have an optimistic disposition and like to try and find the positives in any scenario. And while some may believe that you’re prone to flights of fancy, you’re still actually in tune with your surroundings. It’s just that you happen to always see the glass as half-full.

Can you see a woman peering out of a window in this image? If so, look out! This may mean that you’re unaware of impending dangers – even deadly ones. And though you’re occasionally impulsive, you also have a tendency to be gullible and trusting – sometimes to your detriment.

However, if the skull is more prominent to you, then you have a realistic approach to life. In fact, anyone who’s not close to you may perceive you as a cynic. That’s not quite true, as you have a pragmatic view of the world rather than a pessimistic one. You can also accept that nothing lasts forever.

Colors, too, can play a part in character analysis. Take this image as an example. Which shade is most prominent in your eyes – blue, yellow or turquoise? Well, yet again, your answer could give a surprising insight into your temperament. If yellow dominates for you, apparently you’re both easygoing and adaptable.

If you see a lot of turquoise, then The Wonder List claims you’re a restless risk-taker whose imagination fuels a creative streak. Those who mostly notice the deeper blue, on the other hand, are very analytical and have perfectionist tendencies. So which color calls to you?

If you still haven’t learned anything about yourself yet, perhaps this apocalyptic image will offer a clue. Or does it really show the end of the world? Well, if it’s an explosion you see, then you may be easily scared – especially of the unknown. You can be forgetful, too, and from time to time you may even be at war with yourself.

If you look more closely at the image, however, something emerges from the billowing smoke: a couple caught in a passionate embrace. And if that’s what stood out to you first, then, apparently, relationships are incredibly important to you. Family, friends and partners will always take priority in your life.

There are multiple perspectives to this illusion depending on whether you are a man or a woman. The Powerful Mind says, for instance, that women who see the man’s face first may either be looking for a passionate romance or are already closely bonded to a current partner. If they notice a woman’s face first, though, then they are likely to be mentally strong and self-assured.

Similarly, men who see the woman’s face to begin with may be on the lookout for a long-term partner with whom to settle down. If they spot the man’s face first, though, then they may have worries about bonding with other men – be it at work, among friends, or in social spaces.

At first glance, you may see three trees looming in front of a sunset in this illusion. And if that’s the case, then you’re incredibly perceptive – a trait that serves you well. You’re also easygoing to the point that you’re happy whiling away hours doing very little. But what if you actually spotted something else?

Maybe the first thing that sprang out at you was the face of a cat or tiger. This suggests there’s a certain single-mindedness to your nature – much like a big cat stalking their prey. Yes, seeing a predatory feline in this image likely means that you’re determined and tend to stick to any decisions you make.

For many folks, an image of a frog leaps out of this illustration – pun completely intended. What that says about them is that they are forthright and have a no-fluff approach to communicating with others. They’re seen as stable and self-assured, too. But what does it mean if you see a horse instead?

Well, if the illustration looks more equine to you, then you’re considered to be contemplative with a penetrating intellect. Not everything is necessarily as it first appears to you, and so you’re prone to looking for deeper meaning in things. You’re unlikely to be swayed by others’ opinions, either.

What is it that you see most clearly when you look at this image? If it’s zebras, then that suggests you love to be surrounded by people. You’re a bit of a chatterbox, too, and love a party where you can make new acquaintances. You may also prefer winging your way through situations rather than following any mundane routines.

But if a lion stands out, you prefer the quiet life. You’d rather spend time with a select few friends or one-on-one with a partner. And loading up on snacks while watching a movie at home is probably your idea of fun. Crowds of people just drain your energy, meaning you tend to avoid them at all costs.

Ah, a snowy mountain vista. If that was your first impression of this beautiful image, then you’re probably rather perceptive. You’ve come to trust your gut responses to situations when making decisions – a method you usually find reliable. But maybe you couldn’t actually see the mountains for the gray bears.

Usually, instinct would tell you to flee when confronted with bears. However, if that’s the prominent image you see here, then you have a very systematic approach to decision-making. You like to look at all aspects of an argument and fully understand it in order to come up with an efficient solution – which should still be to calmly walk away when you see a bear!

It’s perhaps pointing out the obvious to say that there is a tree in this image. If that’s the first thing you spot, then you’re said to enjoy your own company. And while you may prefer to distance yourself from others, you do still like to be among nature and the people you value the most. Apparently, you’ll also do your best to avoid upsetting your nearest and dearest. But is a tree all you can see?

If you look a little closer, you may see a couple gazing at each other. Perhaps that was even the first thing that stood out to you. If that’s the case, then you’re the sentimental type with a penchant for optimism. Using your rationality and thoughtfulness, you may even be able to help the most unsettled and flustered people compose themselves.

On first appearance, this picture may look like a Rorschach inkblot. If you keep focusing, however, you may just pick out a saxophone player. See it? Great, as that tells you the left side of your brain dominates your thinking. This means you’re excellent at interpreting situations and are probably good at learning new languages. Your razor-sharp perceptive skills may also make you the go-to person in your friend group when your buddies need words of wisdom.

On the other hand, if you can only see the image of a woman, then the right side of your brain tends to dominate. That means you’re a creative type who may like to engage in a whole host of artistic endeavors. Your emotional intelligence is strong, too, and you can be enterprising when it comes to overcoming life’s hurdles.

If the first animal you spotted in this illustration was a seal, congratulations! You’re a master of logic, and this will help you in many sticky situations. It also goes without saying that you’re a whizz at math. But that’s certainly not all. The way your mind works means that you can learn new languages pretty quickly, too. But some people are seeing something else first...

If the predominant image is of a donkey, however, then you’re perceptive and may have a sixth sense for predicting consequences. You like to work autonomously without interference from supervisors, as freedom is all to you. And when you’re faced with a tricky conundrum, you like to look over all possibilities to find the best potential choice.

This illusion has three layers. If the girl stands out, then it’s said that you’re an imaginative type. Your air of mystery draws people to you, although rousing so much attention may make others a little envious. And you’re an enigma when it comes to relationships, preferring to reveal yourself to a partner gradually rather than all at once.

If you saw the outside view, on the other hand, then you’re reckoned to be reliable. That doesn’t make you boring, as you also possess a great sense of humor. You may even be able to influence the mood of a room at a party – perhaps through cracking a joke or two. And if a skull is most obvious to you in this image, it apparently means that you’re caring, charismatic and intelligent. You’re also able to assess circumstances without bias.

Can you see a tree in this illustration? Well, if that’s the first thing you spot, then you probably possess great organizational skills. Perhaps you’re even a natural leader with a knack for solving problems. But while these are all great qualities, a little blue-sky thinking won’t hurt – especially if it helps you realize a long-held ambition.

If, on the other hand, you saw a gorilla, you may be your own worst critic. Notice the lion to begin with, instead? Well, that makes you a strong person who tends to go with their gut. And if you managed to spot the fish in the first instance, then you likely operate in the here and now, with faith and positivity that things will always work out.

Psychologists tell us that our subconscious acts as a kind of dumping ground for everything we experience – even the things we don’t remember. When you look at an optical illusion, then, your subconscious may influence what you see first, and this in turn can tell you a little about your own personality. So, if you spot an exotic bird in this image, you could be a bit absent-minded – although that idealistic streak of yours can be put to use in making the world a better place.

If this illustration appears to show a lion, however, then you like to dig deep on issues. You’re also very brave – even when it comes to facing your own insecurities. So if you’re wondering why you and your best bud see different things in this image, it’s probably down to your subconscious minds!

There are two things going on in this illustration. The most obvious for you may be a village scene, complete with what appears to be straw huts, trees and a flock of birds. Anyone who sees that image most prominently is believed to be a stickler for routine and not keen on rocking the boat. And if that’s you, there’s something else in the picture that may not be obvious straight away.

Yes, look deeper, and you’ll spot the outline of an elephant in the sketch. If that’s the vision that seems most obvious to you, though, then it’s been suggested that you treat others with consideration. You’re also a fiercely devoted friend who listens to your buddies’ problems intently. And we stress that in no way does it suggest anything about the size of your ears...

Here, you may be able to see the rear end of a dog, tail floating behind as it scurries off the right side of the frame. And if you’re nodding right now, then you’re somebody who tries to be creative when it comes to solving any issues. Using an outside-the-box approach is practically second nature to you, in fact.

If you noticed the dog’s snout pointing into the picture from the left of the frame, on the other hand, then you have a very rational approach to life. You tend to deal with problems using your head rather than your heart, taking a practical view on tackling any issues that concern you.

What do you see here? If it’s two crocodiles touching snouts, then you’re someone who likes to be in the driving seat. That means you’re probably far better at being a boss than you are at taking instruction from other people. As a leader, however, you’re unlikely to rule with an iron fist.

But if it’s a bird you see first in this image, then the roles are reversed. You’re the one who serves others well. That’s not to say you’re a pushover or subordinate – it’s just the role in which you most shine. And as somebody who is agreeable and affable, you’re seen as a person who can be relied on.

See those adorable squirrels perched on a tree limb? Not only are they cute, but they can tell you something about yourself. Spot the critters first in this image, and you’re likely to be the apple of your boss’ eye. Why? Well, you can quickly solve problems without looking too deeply into them.

There’s also a woman’s face here, which not everyone can see at all. Try looking at the image with your head tilted to the left if you haven’t already spotted it. But perhaps that was the first thing that came to mind. This means you’re unusually attentive, which may benefit you in social situations as well as in the workplace.

What’s the first thing you see when you look at the image above? Is it a silhouette of a crocodile, teeth bared and with its nose pointing toward the left of the picture? Or do those “teeth” actually appear as waves lapping at the side of a boat with two figures aboard?

Well, if the boat stood out, website The Powerful Mind says that you’re likely to pay attention to the little things. You’ll probably also come across as inventive, idiosyncratic and even unique; at the same time, though, you should take care not to get lost in specifics. If you saw the crocodile, on the other hand, you’re likely to be more pragmatic and wary. Take a few chances sometimes if you can.

One of two images should come into view here depending on whether you focus on the lighter elements or the darker areas. If at first glance, three columns stand out, then The Powerful Mind claims that it’s likely you prefer safety and calm. You may also spend more time thinking about your objectives rather than working toward achieving them – meaning, from time to time, you may have to take risks even if they feel uncomfortable.

However, if it’s the outline or two people that are more prominent for you, this suggests that you’re mercurial and perhaps a bit of a maverick. Your curiosity prevails over any instincts you may have to stay in one place. So which did you see first?

What do you see in this image? If it’s the back of a young woman’s head, then, according to The New Zealand Herald, you’re inquisitive and see the positives in life. You may also enjoy charity work or helping people in need in your community. Be wary of making knee-jerk decisions, though, even if you’re likely to see tasks through to completion.

If you initially see an old man with a mustache (see the arrow pointing to it?) then The New Zealand Herald assesses you as loyal, trustworthy, and level-headed. You’re likely to be dependable and honest with an ability to find the right way forward and lead others to this, too. Still, while you’ll usually follow a carefully plotted course to avoid impetuous choices, you should be mindful that aspiring to perfection can be stressful.

This image was created by the Israeli artist Noma Bar, who specializes in using negative space to create ambiguous illustrations. And of his work, he has explained, “An artist using ‘negative space’ relies on the space that surrounds the subject to provide shape and meaning to the hidden images. Of course, the term also refers to any topic that conjures feelings of unease and discomfort.” So, what exactly do you see here?

Perhaps the yellow-to-red gradient looks like an explosion. If that’s the case, then according to website The Wonder List you have good organizational skills and outstanding leadership qualities. If, however, you immediately see the black space that looks like two thumbs, then you have compassion for others and are kind and generous.

There are not two but three things you may see when looking at this image for the first time. You could have spotted a man wearing a hat looking through a set of binoculars, for instance. Alternatively, you may notice a car perpendicular to a road. Or maybe the letter “A” even jumped out at you first?

If you saw the man, then, it’s suggested that you’re better at seeing life in the round rather than sweating the small stuff. If the car initially grabbed your attention, however, then you value liberty and moving through the world according to your own rhythm – even if you may get caught up on finer details. And the letter “A”? Well, if you visualized that first, then you may have a strong ability to think laterally.

Does this image show two faces staring at each other? If that’s what you see, then according to The Powerful Mind you’re an extrovert who loves social gatherings. You’re the center of attention at parties, and your energy levels are given a boost when you are interacting with others – especially if they’re on the same wavelength.

However, if you saw a candlestick first, then The Powerful Mind describes you as less of a people person. You’re probably contemplative –perhaps even shy – and prefer to be left with your thoughts. It’s more likely that you relish alone time at home rather than going to parties, and you prefer the company of a few select people to mingling with crowds.

What do you notice at first glance in the above image? Do you see a round face with a mustache and closed eyes? Or do you perceive two birds in front of a full moon in the night sky? Well, the answer to that question could give valuable insight into how you interact with people around you.

If you saw the face first, for instance, then The Wonder List suggests that you are tactful, personable and do your best to avoid disagreements. Your instincts serve you well, too. On the other hand, if you noticed the birds initially, then you’re likely upbeat and hospitable with a knack for getting on with strangers. Often, you’re also a good sounding board for those close to you.

Can you see a superhero mask? Or is it lingerie? While to some, this picture obviously shows Peter Parker’s crime-fighting disguise, for others there’s clearly a white bra on a red background. So, what immediately comes to mind when you gaze at this image?

Well, The Wonder List claims that if you saw Spider-Man, then you have a very placid, reticent and unflappable nature. You’re probably a stickler for tradition, too, and don’t enjoy rocking the boat. If you noticed a bra, on the other hand, then you generally seek out excitement in your life and are open to trying new things. You also take each day as it comes and generally live life without regrets.

This image was created by the U.K. investment and loans company Funding Circle. And it’s the firm’s belief that what you see first can determine what kind of role would best suit you. Professional types that Funding Circle has identified include the go-to person, the business creative and the big-picture thinker. So, do you see a lynx or bird in flight here?

Well, if you spotted the lynx first, then it’s Funding Circle’s belief that you’re the type of person who can see the big picture. This would make you suitable for jobs that involve brainstorming, team assembly and project management. If, however, you saw the bird, then you’re more of a go-getter with entrepreneurial flair. People will depend on you to get the job done.