Optical illusions have a curious way of stopping us in our tracks. One moment you are casually scrolling, the next you are questioning your own perception. This particular visual puzzle does exactly that, inviting you to look closely and, perhaps, learn something unexpected about how your mind works.
A visual challenge to understand your brain
I have always loved these little mental detours. I remember one pinned to a noticeboard in a newsroom years ago, sparking endless debates over mugs of tea. Everyone saw something different, and everyone was convinced they were right.
That is the charm of an optical illusion. It plays with contrast, shapes and expectations, nudging the brain to make quick decisions. Neuroscientists often explain that our brains are wired to interpret visual information rapidly, filling in gaps without us realising. According to organisations such as the British Psychological Society, these shortcuts are useful most of the time, but illusions reveal just how subjective perception can be.
This image invites you to pause for a few seconds and simply notice what appears first, without overthinking it.
What do you notice first?
Take a calm look at the image. Let your eyes settle naturally rather than scanning for clues. Some people immediately see a woman asleep, her features soft and horizontal. Others spot a male face, more upright and defined.
There is no right or wrong answer here. The interest lies in what your brain prioritises in those first few moments. That instinctive response is what this exercise focuses on, offering a playful glimpse into your brain dominance.
If you see a sleeping woman first
If your eyes were drawn to the sleeping woman, you may lean towards a more intuitive and imaginative way of thinking. This is often associated with the right side of the brain, which plays a key role in creativity, visual awareness and emotional processing.
People who think this way often describe themselves as idea driven. They enjoy stories, images and possibilities rather than rigid plans. A friend of mine who works as a set designer saw the sleeping woman instantly and laughed when she read the description. ‘That explains why I sketch before I think,’ she said.
Researchers frequently note that creativity thrives on this ability to see patterns and meanings beyond the obvious. It does not mean logic is absent, just that imagination tends to lead the way.
If you see a male face first
If the male face stood out straight away, your thinking style may be more analytical and structured. This is commonly linked with the left side of the brain, which is associated with language, reasoning and organisation.
People with this tendency often enjoy clear systems, lists and step by step solutions. A former colleague in finance once told me she loved optical illusions precisely because they felt like puzzles to solve. When she spotted the male face first, it felt entirely on brand.
Psychologists are careful to point out that the brain does not work in strict halves. Still, these preferences can hint at how we approach everyday challenges, from planning a trip to tackling a work problem.
A playful insight rather than a verdict
It is important to treat this kind of test as a bit of fun, not a diagnosis. Modern neuroscience, including research shared by bodies such as the NHS, stresses that both sides of the brain work together constantly. We all use logic and creativity in varying degrees, depending on the situation.
That said, exercises like this can encourage a moment of reflection. Noticing your natural tendencies may help you play to your strengths or gently challenge yourself to think differently.
Whether you are more drawn to creative thinking or logical thinking, the real value lies in curiosity. These small visual riddles remind us that perception is personal, the mind is flexible, and there is always more than one way to see the same thing.
