Being genuine isn’t just about telling the truth. It’s about being real with yourself and others about who you are, what you believe, and what you want. 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.
These are some of the traits that authentic people possess. And trust me, recognizing these traits in others can help you surround yourself with people who are truly genuine.
Here are nine traits that really authentic people display.
1) They’re consistent
Authenticity and consistency go hand in hand. People who are genuine tend to be the same person in every situation.
Consider this: Are they just as pleasant and respectful to a waiter or cashier as they are to their friends? Are they the same individual at the office as they are at home? If your answer to these questions is a resounding yes, you’re likely dealing with an authentic person.
Genuine people don’t change their personality or beliefs based on who they’re interacting with. They treat everyone with the same level of respect and kindness, regardless of their status or relationship.
This is not to say that authentic people never evolve or grow. Rather, their core self remains constant, even as they learn and develop. They don’t put on airs or try to fit into a mold that isn’t them.
2) They’re not afraid to show vulnerability
This is something I’ve noticed in all the authentic people I’ve met: they aren’t scared to show their vulnerabilities.
Take my friend Laura, for example. She’s one of the most genuine people I know, and a big part of that is her willingness to open up about her struggles. Whether it’s dealing with work stress or navigating personal relationships, she doesn’t put on a brave face and pretend everything’s perfect.
Instead, she shares her experiences honestly, even if it means revealing her insecurities or fears. This doesn’t make her weak. In fact, it makes her incredibly strong and relatable. We all have our struggles, and acknowledging them openly is a sign of authenticity.
Being authentic isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being real and unafraid to show your true self, vulnerabilities and all.
3) They value integrity
Authentic people place a high priority on integrity. This means they hold themselves to high moral principles and are honest, even when it’s not convenient or easy.
A study conducted by the Center for Creative Leadership found that integrity is one of the top characteristics associated with effective leadership. People tend to trust and respect individuals who have a strong sense of right and wrong and consistently act according to their values.
Authentic people don’t compromise their principles for personal gain. They stand up for what they believe in, regardless of the repercussions. This unwavering commitment to integrity is a clear sign of authenticity.
4) They listen deeply
Authentic people aren’t just good talkers, they’re excellent listeners too. They truly care about others’ perspectives and experiences, and this genuine interest is reflected in their listening skills.
When you’re speaking with a genuine person, they give you their full attention. They don’t interrupt, glance at their phone, or let their mind wander. Instead, they focus on your words, showing empathy and understanding.
This ability to listen deeply is a hallmark of authenticity. It shows respect for others and a willingness to learn from their viewpoints. So if you notice someone who truly listens when you speak, you may have found a genuinely authentic individual.
5) They express their true feelings
Authentic people are in touch with their emotions, and they aren’t afraid to express them. Whether they’re feeling joyful, disappointed, or anything in between, they’ll let you know.
They don’t suppress their feelings or put on a façade to please others. If they’re upset, they won’t pretend everything’s fine. If they’re happy, they won’t hide their joy.
This honesty about their emotions is a clear sign of authenticity. It shows that they’re comfortable with who they are and aren’t trying to fit into a box that society has created.
If you encounter someone who’s open about their feelings and doesn’t hide behind a mask, chances are, they’re a truly authentic person.
6) They’re not judgmental
Authentic people understand that we’re all human, and we all make mistakes. They don’t pass judgment on others for their flaws or mishaps. Instead, they offer understanding, acceptance, and kindness.
I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this trait can be. When someone is struggling or makes an error, the last thing they need is judgement. What they do need is someone who can empathize, offer support, and remind them that it’s okay to be imperfect.
If you encounter someone who is quick to understand rather than judge, who offers a comforting word instead of criticism, you’re likely dealing with an authentic person. Authenticity involves embracing humanity with all its imperfections and offering compassion where it’s needed most.
7) They practice self-reflection
In my journey to live a more authentic life, I’ve realized the importance of self-reflection. Authentic people often take time to reflect on their thoughts, emotions, and actions.
They question their motivations and decisions, and they’re not afraid to confront their mistakes. They recognize that self-improvement is a lifelong journey, and they are committed to learning and growing.
This continuous self-reflection allows them to stay true to themselves and their values. If you notice someone who often takes a moment to pause, reflect, and learn from their experiences, they’re likely a genuinely authentic person.
8) They’re comfortable in their own skin
Authentic people exude a certain level of comfort and confidence in who they are. They don’t feel the need to conform to societal pressures or change themselves to fit in.
They embrace their individuality and aren’t afraid to let their unique qualities shine through. This comfort with themselves often translates into a certain ease and genuineness in their interactions with others.
They don’t aspire to be someone else or envy others for what they have. Instead, they’re content with who they are, warts and all.
If you encounter someone who seems truly at ease with themselves, chances are you’ve found an authentic person. They’ve embraced their individuality and aren’t afraid to be themselves, making them genuinely unique.
9) They’re reliable
If there’s one thing you should know about authentic people, it’s that they’re reliable. You can trust them to keep their word and follow through on their promises.
They don’t make commitments lightly. When they say they’ll do something, they mean it. Whether it’s showing up for a meeting on time, completing a task, or being there for a friend in need, you can count on them.
This reliability stems from their respect for others and their own personal integrity. They understand that being dependable builds trust and strengthens relationships.
If someone consistently proves to be dependable and trustworthy, you’ve likely found an authentic person.
Embracing authenticity: A way of life
The quest for authenticity is more than just identifying these traits in others. It’s about reflecting on our own behavior and actions. It’s about striving to be more honest, consistent, and true to ourselves.
The philosopher Socrates once said, “To know thyself is the beginning of wisdom.” This statement rings true even today. The journey towards authenticity starts with self-awareness, understanding our values, beliefs, and emotions.
Authenticity isn’t about perfection. It’s about embracing our imperfections and vulnerabilities. It’s about being comfortable in our skin and expressing our true feelings without fear of judgment.
As we navigate through life, let’s strive to be authentic in our interactions. Let’s value integrity, listen deeply, and practice self-reflection. Let’s be reliable and comfortable in our own skin.
Because at the end of the day, authenticity is not just a trait. It’s a way of life. And it’s a journey that starts with knowing ourselves.
What would Jesus say?
Unsure whether to move on from a failed marriage? Struggling with desire and feeling guilty for it? Wanting to live a life Jesus would be proud of?
Let Jesus tell you how to be a good Christian according to the teachings of the Bible.
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