10 signs you’re a genuine person, according to psychology

We’re always trying to figure out if people around us are truly genuine, aren’t we? And while it’s easy to make assumptions, what if there’s a more scientific way to go about it?

Psychology offers us some interesting insights into the signs of a genuine person. You know, the kind of person who is true to themselves and to others.

In this article, we’ll be diving into “10 signs you’re a genuine person, according to psychology”. We’ll unpack these signs and explore why they matter. So, are you ready to discover if you’re as real as you think you are? Let’s get started.

1) Authenticity is your default setting

You’re not one for putting on a show. When it comes to being genuine, authenticity is the name of the game.

Being authentic means you’re true to yourself and others. You don’t feel the need to wear different masks or play different roles in different circumstances. You’re the same person no matter who you’re interacting with.

And psychology backs this up.

Carl Rogers, one of the most influential psychologists of the 20th century said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”

In other words, acceptance of oneself is the first step towards authenticity. And that’s a big sign you’re a genuine person.

So if you’re someone who doesn’t feel the need to put up a facade, you might just be as genuine as they come.

2) You’re comfortable in your own skin

There’s always been something comforting about not having to pretend or put up appearances. I remember back in college, I had friends who would constantly try to fit into certain groups or trends, changing their style and even their opinions based on what was “in”. But that was never my thing. I was comfortable being me, quirks and all. And that’s a characteristic of genuine people.

According to research conducted by the University of Rochester, those who can accept their quirks and idiosyncrasies are more likely to be authentic and genuine. The study found that individuals who accepted their unique traits reported higher levels of life satisfaction and lower levels of stress.

So, if you’re someone who embraces your individuality, without feeling the need to conform to societal norms or expectations, it’s a strong sign you’re a genuine person. You own your uniqueness and it shines through in your authenticity.

3) You’re not judgemental

Being genuine doesn’t just relate to how we present ourselves, but also how we view others. Genuine people have a knack for seeing people without judgement or bias.

It’s like the famous psychologist Abraham Maslow once said, “The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness.” And part of being in the present moment involves seeing people and situations for what they are, not what we interpret or judge them to be.

Genuine people accept others as they are, without trying to change or critique them. This acceptance of others, without judgement, is a clear sign of a genuine person. They understand that everyone has their own journey and it’s not their place to pass judgment on it.

4) You express empathy

Empathy is a cornerstone of genuine individuals. Being able to understand and share the feelings of others is a trait that sets genuine people apart.

As the renowned psychologist Carl Rogers put it, “When someone really hears you without passing judgement on you, without trying to take responsibility for you, without trying to mold you, it feels damn good!”

Genuine people have this ability to make others feel heard and understood. They can put themselves in other people’s shoes, see the world from their perspective, and respond with compassion and understanding. This empathetic nature is a clear sign of a genuine person.

5) You have a strong moral compass

Genuine people often have a strong sense of right and wrong. They’re guided by their values and principles, even when no one is watching.

Interestingly, research from the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business found that individuals who demonstrate high moral character are perceived as more genuine. The study concluded that our moral behavior, more than any other factor, determines whether people believe we are “real” or “genuine.”

So, if you’re someone who sticks to their values and principles, even in challenging situations, it’s a clear sign of your genuineness. Your moral compass doesn’t waver with the wind, and that’s a trait of a genuine person.

6) You’re not afraid to show vulnerability

Genuine people don’t shy away from showing their vulnerabilities. They understand that no one is perfect, and they’re not afraid to admit it.

As the renowned psychologist Brené Brown said, “Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome.”

Genuine people are open about their feelings, their fears, and their failures. They don’t put up a façade of perfection. Instead, they embrace vulnerability as a part of being human. This willingness to be open and vulnerable is a clear sign of a genuine person.

7) You’re consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to being genuine. Genuine people are consistently themselves, regardless of the situation or the company they’re in.

A study from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln found that consistency in personality traits and behaviors is a significant predictor of perceived authenticity. The research suggests that individuals who act consistently across different situations are more likely to be seen as genuine.

So, if you’re someone who remains true to yourself, no matter what situation you’re in or who you’re with, it’s a good indicator that you’re a genuine person. Consistency in your actions and behaviors are a true sign of genuineness.

8) You listen more than you speak

Genuine people are often great listeners. They value the perspectives and thoughts of others, and actively seek to understand before being understood.

As the famous psychologist Stephen Covey once said, “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” But that’s not the case with genuine people.

They take the time to truly listen, not just wait for their turn to speak. They’re more interested in understanding others than in being understood themselves. So if you find yourself listening more than you speak, it’s a clear sign you’re a genuine person.

9) You don’t seek attention

Genuine people don’t need the spotlight to feel validated. They’re comfortable with who they are and don’t feel the need to seek attention or approval from others.

Interestingly, a study from the University of Georgia found that individuals who seek attention and approval from others are more likely to engage in deceptive behavior. On the other hand, those who are genuine tend to be more comfortable in their own skin, not needing external validation to feel good about themselves.

So, if you’re someone who doesn’t crave the spotlight or constantly seek approval from others, these are clear indicators of your genuineness. You’re content being yourself without the need for constant validation or attention.

10) You’re self-aware

Genuine people possess a strong sense of self-awareness. They understand their strengths, weaknesses, and emotions, and how they impact those around them.

As the pioneering psychologist Daniel Goleman once said, “Self-awareness is not an attention that gets carried away by emotions, by thoughts, or by sensations. It’s a kind of attention that can stand back and be quiet.”

Genuine people have this ability to reflect on their actions and emotions, and understand their impact on others. They’re not afraid to confront their flaws and work on improving themselves. This deep self-awareness is a clear sign of a genuine person.