Build an Environment Where Every Style Thrives
Culture isn’t something that comes neatly packaged like a carefully worded mission statement. It’s not something you put on a poster.
Simply put, culture is how people experience the organization.
Unfortunately, there seems to be an unspoken norm that people are expected to adapt to the existing environment rather than the environment adapting to them.
Over the years, working with the DISC styles, I’ve seen something clear. People don’t resist work. They resist environments that box them in.
So, let’s explore what people of each DISC style (a.k.a. Eagles, Parrots, Doves, and Owls) need to feel engaged by the culture.
🦅 Eagles need clarity and momentum. They light up around big goals and visible progress. Leave priorities fuzzy and decisions murky, and that same energy turns into frustration. They don’t need hand-holding. They need direction and space to execute.
🦜 Parrots need interaction. They think out loud. They generate ideas mid-sentence. They thrive in environments where collaboration feels natural, not forced. Shut down discussion and over-structure every meeting, and they slowly fade. Inviting dialogue and creativity will take flight.
🕊 Doves need emotional safety. They notice tension in the room before anyone else says a word. When leaders listen well and transitions are thoughtful, Doves feel seen and valued. When conflict feels sharp or rushed, they withdraw. Trust is oxygen for them.
🦉 Owls need depth. They want information, process, and time to think. They respect standards and prepare thoroughly. In a culture that glorifies speed over accuracy, they feel dismissed. In a culture that values precision and thoughtful decisions, they produce quality work that lasts.
This is not about building four separate workplaces. It’s about building one intelligent environment. One where goals are clear, ideas are welcome, kindness is modeled, and standards are high.
When culture adapts, people stop spending energy compensating for who they are. They start contributing from strength.
If you look at your own workplace, who is it built for? And who is quietly adapting every day?
About the Author:
Merrick Rosenberg is a keynote speaker, author, and founder of Take Flight Learning. He is the author of Personality Intelligence: Master the Art of Being You and The Chameleon, and the creator of the Eagle, Parrot, Dove, and Owl personality styles. Merrick helps people align their careers, relationships, and leadership with who they actually are, not whom they think they should be. Through his work, millions have learned how to understand themselves and others to build stronger teams, healthier relationships, and more grounded lives. When he’s not working, he’s either flying, teaching, or trying to get into the crow pose at yoga. Learn more at MerrickRosenberg.com and TakeFlightLearning.com.