Ethan Sterling
Being genuine isn’t just good for your own mental health, it’s also a key trait of successful relationships.
But let’s be honest.
We’ve all met people who seem more interested in putting on a show than showing their true selves. While we all have our moments of insincerity, some take it to a whole new level.
So, what separates authentic people from the fakes?
Without giving away too much, let’s just say authentic people don’t have to try hard to be likable – they just are. On the other hand, fakes might be trying a bit too hard at times.
Intrigued? Stick around.
We’re about to dive into the 7 things fake people do that authentic people don’t, all backed by psychology.
Prepare to be enlightened!
1) Fake people are often people-pleasers
We all want to be liked, right?
But how far would you go to win someone’s approval?
Authentic individuals?
They’re comfortable in their own skin.
They don’t feel the need to constantly seek validation from others.
Sure, everyone likes to be liked. But authentic people understand that you can’t please everyone, and that’s okay.
Fake people, on the other hand, can often be found bending over backward to win others’ approval.
They’ll agree with opinions they don’t share, laugh at jokes they don’t find funny, and even pretend to enjoy things they loathe – all in the name of fitting in.
According to psychology, this behavior stems from insecurity and a fear of rejection.
But here’s the thing: authenticity is always more endearing in the long run.
So, stick to being you, warts and all. It’s what makes you real.
2) Fake people rarely show vulnerability
Ever had one of those days where everything just seems to go wrong?
I remember a day like that.
The coffee machine broke, I lost an important document, and to top it off, I missed my bus home.
When I bumped into a friend later that evening, I couldn’t help but spill the beans about my disastrous day.
Now, that’s what authentic people do.
They embrace their vulnerability and aren’t afraid to share their struggles. After all, everyone has their ups and downs, right?
But fake people? Not so much. They often project an image of perfection, as if everything in their life is always hunky-dory.
They fear appearing weak or flawed, so they hide their struggles behind a façade of perpetual positivity and success.
According to psychology, this lack of vulnerability can hinder deep, meaningful connections.
People connect with authenticity, with real human experiences – not with an illusion of perfection.
So, don’t be afraid to let your guard down a little. It’s what makes you human after all.
3) Fake people often gossip
We’ve all been there, haven’t we?
Caught up in a juicy bit of gossip, ears perked, curiosity piqued.
But here’s the thing. Authentic individuals know that gossip is a double-edged sword.
They understand that trust, once broken, is hard to rebuild.
Ever notice how some people always seem to have the latest scoop on everyone else’s life?
These are often the fake ones.
They revel in the drama and the secrets, using them as social currency.
It’s not just morally dubious; psychology tells us it’s a poor strategy for forming meaningful connections.
People may enjoy the tidbits for a while, but they’ll also wonder what you’re saying behind their back.
Authentic people prefer to build their relationships on trust and respect, not on other people’s misfortunes or mistakes.
Ultimately, isn’t it better to be known for your kindness than your knack for knowing everyone else’s business?
4) Fake people often lack empathy
Have you ever shared a problem with someone, hoping for a bit of understanding, only to be met with indifference or even annoyance?
Nothing stings quite like it, does it?
Authentic people, they get it.
They understand that empathy is not just about feeling sorry for someone.
It’s about understanding their feelings and seeing things from their perspective.
Fake people, however, often struggle with this.
They may offer a quick “that’s too bad” before swiftly changing the topic or making it about themselves.
Their lack of genuine empathy can make their interactions seem shallow and self-centered.
Psychologists tell us that empathy is a key ingredient in forming meaningful connections.
It allows us to understand and connect with others on a deeper level.
So, the next time someone shares a problem with you, take a moment. Listen.
Show genuine interest and empathy.
It might just make all the difference.
5) Fake people are often inconsistent
Ever known someone whose opinions seem to change with the wind?
One day they’re all about healthy living, and the next, they’re scoffing down a double cheeseburger, claiming diets are overrated.
This kind of inconsistency can be a telltale sign of a fake person.
Here’s an intriguing tidbit: consistency is a fundamental aspect of authenticity.
It’s about staying true to your values and beliefs, even when they’re not popular or convenient.
Authentic individuals are consistent in their words and actions.
They stand by their beliefs and aren’t easily swayed by trends or peer pressure.
So, while it’s perfectly okay to change your mind or evolve your views over time, constant flip-flopping could signal a lack of authenticity.
It’s always better to stay true to yourself, even when you stand alone.
After all, as Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
6) Fake people often seek attention
Have you ever noticed how some people always need to be in the spotlight? They’ll do anything for a bit of attention, even if it means overshadowing others.
It’s a classic trait of fake individuals.
They crave validation and often rely on external attention to boost their self-esteem.
They feel the need to be seen, heard, and admired constantly.
On the flip side, authentic people are comfortable in their own skin.
They don’t seek validation from others but rather find it within themselves.
They understand that self-worth comes from self-acceptance, not external applause.
We all have moments when we crave a little spotlight. It’s human nature.
But remember, true self-worth comes from within.
7) Fake people don’t respect boundaries
Boundaries. They’re the invisible lines that define what we are comfortable with and what we are not.
Authentic people understand this.
They respect others’ boundaries and expect the same in return.
They understand that everyone has a right to their personal space, time, and feelings.
Fake individuals, however, often disregard these boundaries.
They may insist on their way, impose their opinions, or dismiss others’ feelings without a second thought.
This lack of respect for others’ boundaries is a clear sign of inauthentic behavior.
In the end, respect for boundaries reflects respect for the individual.
And isn’t that what being genuine is all about?
The final takeaway
Recognize any of these traits in yourself?
Don’t worry, we all have moments of inauthenticity. It’s part of being human.
The important thing is self-awareness.
Once you recognize these behaviors, you can start to make changes.
It won’t happen overnight, but the journey towards authenticity is a journey worth taking.
Remember, being genuine doesn’t mean you have to reveal everything about yourself to everyone.
It means being true to your values and not pretending to be someone you’re not.
So, embrace your imperfections. Value your uniqueness.
And most importantly, be kind to yourself in the process.
After all, the most person you should be authentic with is yourself.
