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

Being genuine is more than just being honest. It’s about being real, authentic, and true to who you are at your core.

Psychology tells us there are certain indicators that determine whether a person is genuine or not. And while we all like to think we’re authentic, it’s not always easy to be completely honest with ourselves.

Being a genuine person is a rare quality. It’s not something you can fake, and it’s certainly not something you can acquire overnight.

In this article, I’m going to share with you 9 signs you’re a genuine person, according to psychology.

Let’s dive in. 

1) You’re not afraid to show vulnerability

Genuine people aren’t afraid to show their vulnerability. They embrace their flaws and accept that they’re not perfect – no one is.

Psychology tells us that authenticity includes being open about our weaknesses. It’s about admitting when we’re wrong and not being afraid to apologize.

Renowned psychotherapist Carl Rogers beautifully encapsulated this idea: “What I am is good enough if I would only be it openly.”

This quote highlights the essence of vulnerability as a catalyst for authenticity, underscoring that authenticity is a pillar of self-understanding and self-acceptance

In a world where everyone is trying to put their best foot forward, this trait can be rare. But genuine people understand that it’s okay to make mistakes. It’s how we grow and learn.

If you find yourself readily admitting your faults and learning from them, you’re most probably a genuine person.

Being authentic doesn’t mean oversharing or laying all your cards on the table right away. It’s about being honest in a way that’s appropriate for the situation and the relationship.

2) You’re consistent in your actions

Being genuine also means being consistent. Your words align with your actions, and people know they can rely on you to be the same person, no matter the circumstance.

I remember a time when I was faced with a difficult decision. A friend had shared something in confidence, but it was information that could potentially harm someone else. I was torn between loyalty to my friend and the need to prevent harm.

In the end, I decided to talk to my friend, express my concerns, and encourage them to do the right thing. It was a tough spot to be in, but sticking to my values and being consistent in my actions felt like the most authentic thing to do.

So if you find yourself consistently acting in accordance with your beliefs, even when it’s hard or uncomfortable, then that’s a strong sign of genuine character.

3) You listen more than you speak

Genuine people are often excellent listeners. They genuinely care about others’ thoughts and feelings, and they show it by giving their full attention during conversations.

When you listen to someone, it’s like saying, “Hey, I care about what you have to say.” It makes the other person feel valued and important.

It also helps you understand people better. It’s not just about hearing their words, but also getting the feelings and thoughts behind those words. This understanding helps you connect with people on a deeper level.

David W. Augsburger, an author and educator, once said, “Being heard is so close to being loved that for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable”​​.

This quote underscores the profound impact of listening in relationships and how it is deeply intertwined with feeling valued and loved.

So, if you find yourself truly engaged in conversations and not just waiting for your turn to speak, this could be a sign of your genuine personality.

4) You don’t crave attention

Genuine people rarely seek the spotlight. They are content with who they are and don’t feel the need to constantly be the center of attention.

They understand that everyone has their own unique story to tell and that everyone deserves a chance to be heard.

This humility allows them to step back and let others shine, demonstrating their authenticity.

If you’re someone who can comfortably take a step back and let others have their moment, then you’re likely a genuine person.

It’s not about being overlooked or undervalued, but about recognizing that everyone has something valuable to contribute.

5) You’re comfortable in your own skin

Genuine people are comfortable with who they are. They don’t feel the need to pretend to be someone else or to conform to society’s expectations.

They embrace their individuality and are proud of their unique traits and experiences. This self-acceptance often radiates outward, making them approachable and relatable to others.

So if you’re someone who feels at ease with who you are, flaws and all, and don’t feel the need to put on a facade, then you’re probably on the genuine side of the spectrum.

Being at peace with yourself is a strong sign of authenticity.

6) You show empathy towards others

Being genuine is also about being empathetic. Genuine people have a deep sense of understanding and compassion for others. They are able to put themselves in someone else’s shoes and feel their pain, joy, and everything in between.

They don’t just acknowledge the feelings of others, they feel it with them. This deep connection allows them to build strong, meaningful relationships.

If you’re someone who often finds yourself feeling deeply for others, sharing in their emotions, and offering your support, then this is a beautiful sign of your genuine nature.

It speaks volumes about your capacity to love and understand people on a profound level.

7) You’re not judgemental

Genuine people understand that everyone has their own journey, and it’s not their place to judge others for their choices or circumstances.

I remember meeting someone who had a completely different lifestyle and set of beliefs than mine. It would have been easy to judge them, to label them as ‘wrong’ or ‘strange’. But I chose to see it as an opportunity to learn and understand, rather than judge and dismiss.

This openness allowed me to gain a new perspective and form a connection that I wouldn’t have otherwise. It was a reminder that being judgement-free not only enriches our own lives but also allows us to build deeper connections with others.

It’s a sign of respect for the diversity of human experiences and a testament to your humility.

8) You’re reliable

Genuine people are reliable. They stick to their commitments and follow through on their promises. When they say they’re going to do something, they do it.

They understand that their actions affect others, and they wouldn’t want to let anyone down.

This consistency and dependability are key traits that make them trustworthy.

If you’re someone who values commitment and always strives to meet your obligations, then it’s a clear sign that you’re a genuine person.

Your reliability shows your respect for others’ time and trust, and it’s a testament to your integrity.

9) You live in alignment with your values

At the heart of being genuine is living in alignment with your values. Genuine people know what they stand for and make choices that reflect those beliefs.

They don’t compromise their values for convenience or popularity. Instead, they stand firm, even when it’s tough or unpopular.

They understand that living in accordance with their values is the truest expression of who they are.

So if you’re someone who is unwavering in your beliefs and consistently make decisions aligned with your values, then you are undeniably a genuine person.

This commitment to authenticity is the mark of true character and self-respect.

Final thoughts: Authenticity is freedom

At the end of the day, it’s crucial to remember that being genuine is all about staying true to yourself. It’s about embracing your authenticity and not being afraid to show it to the world.

Being genuine is not just about honesty or transparency. It’s about self-awareness, empathy, and the courage to be who you are, even when it’s uncomfortable or challenging.

Sociologist Brené Brown once said, “Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It’s about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen.”

So, are you making the daily choice to be genuine? Are you allowing your true self to shine through? Reflect on these signs and ask yourself if you’re living authentically. Because at the end of the day, authenticity isn’t just a trait—it’s a way of life. And it’s a way of life that leads to true freedom.