Have you ever wondered what it really means to be a genuine person?

It’s not just about being honest or real; it’s a whole vibe that sets you apart in today’s world.

In this article, we’re diving into the world of psychology to uncover 8 tell-tale signs that show you’re the real deal.

Whether you’re the friend who always keeps it 100 or you’re just curious about the traits that make someone genuinely authentic, you’re in the right place.

Let’s get started.

1. They embrace their imperfections

Genuine people don’t shy away from acknowledging their flaws.

They understand that being “flawed” is just another term for being human—a reality they embrace wholeheartedly.

This acceptance is beautifully encapsulated in the words of Carl Rogers, a renowned psychologist, who once said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”

These individuals are comfortable with their imperfections—it’s not because they lack ambition or don’t strive for self-improvement.

Instead, they simply acknowledge the existence of their personal limitations and weaknesses.

By acknowledging their imperfections, they allow themselves to grow, learn, and evolve. They value personal growth and continuously invest in self-development.

It’s their understanding and acceptance of their true nature, as Rogers implies, that becomes the foundation for genuine personal transformation and authenticity.

2. They value honesty

Genuine people place a high value on honesty, both with others and with themselves.

They comprehend that “honesty” is not just about not lying—it’s about being truthful in all aspects of life—a principle they firmly uphold.

These people practice honesty—it’s not because they want to appear morally superior. They genuinely believe in the importance of truthfulness and transparency.

Being honest allows them to build strong, trustworthy relationships. They know that honesty is the foundation of true friendship and genuine connection.

This commitment to truthfulness also allows them to live authentically.

Genuine people not only value—but consistently practice honesty so much that without this commitment to truth, they may compromise their authenticity, risk damaging relationships, and live in a state of cognitive dissonance.

3. They show empathy

Genuine people have a natural ability to empathize with others.

They understand that “empathy” is not just about feeling sorry for someone—it’s about understanding and sharing the feelings of others—a quality they naturally embody.

These individuals exhibit empathy—it’s not because they want to be perceived as kind or compassionate.

They genuinely feel for others and strive to understand their perspectives.

Showing empathy allows them to form deep, meaningful connections. They value emotional bonds and the ability to relate to others on a human level.

Genuine people not only show—but truly feel empathy so much that without this emotional understanding, they might struggle to form meaningful relationships, risk becoming detached, and lose touch with their own emotions.

4. They practice humility

Genuine people embody humility in their everyday lives.

They recognize that “humility” is not just about downplaying accomplishments—it’s about acknowledging the value and worth of others—a trait they consistently demonstrate.

These people are humble—it’s not because they lack confidence or self-esteem.

They simply believe in recognizing the contributions of others and do not seek unnecessary attention or praise.

Practicing humility allows them to appreciate others more. They understand that everyone has unique strengths and everyone deserves recognition.

Genuine people not only practice—but live out humility so much that without this modest approach, they may risk becoming egocentric, lose the respect of others, and compromise their genuine nature.

5. They value deep conversations

Genuine people have a preference for deep, meaningful conversations.

They understand that “small talk” doesn’t necessarily foster strong connections—it’s the heart-to-heart discussions that truly matter—a concept they embrace wholeheartedly.

These individuals crave depth in conversations—it’s not because they disdain casual chitchat. They simply find more value and satisfaction in discussions that delve into thoughts, emotions, and ideas.

Engaging in deep conversations enables them to understand others better. They believe that through meaningful discourse, one can truly connect on a deeper level.

Genuine people not just value—but actively seek deep conversations so much that without these substantial exchanges, they might feel disconnected, risk superficial relationships, and miss out on an opportunity for genuine connection.

6. They respect others’ boundaries

Genuine people have a profound respect for personal boundaries.

They grasp that respecting “boundaries” is not merely about giving space—it’s about acknowledging and honoring the personal comfort zones of others—a practice they adhere to consistently.

These individuals respect boundaries—it’s not because they are aloof or distant. They genuinely understand the importance of personal space and respect in any relationship.

Respecting others’ boundaries allows them to maintain healthy relationships. They believe that a relationship thrives on mutual respect and understanding.

Genuine people not only respect—but uphold others’ boundaries so much that without this understanding, they might risk straining relationships, invading personal space, and compromising their sincerity.

7. They are consistent

Genuine people are known for their consistency.

They realize that being “consistent” is not just about routine—it’s about aligning actions with words and values—a trait they manifest in their lives.

These individuals are consistent—it’s not because they fear change or lack flexibility. They simply believe in the importance of staying true to oneself and one’s values, regardless of changing circumstances.

Being consistent allows them to establish trust and credibility. They know that consistency is key to maintaining authenticity and earning the respect of others.

Genuine people not only value—but demonstrate consistency so much that without this alignment of actions and values, they may risk losing credibility, creating confusion, and compromising their authenticity.

8. They listen more than they speak

Genuine people are often more interested in hearing what others have to say than in being heard themselves.

They realize that “listening” means more than just waiting for their turn to speak—it’s about truly hearing and understanding others—a behavior they consciously practice.

These individuals listen attentively—it’s not because they lack opinions or ideas.

They feel that every individual has a unique perspective and wisdom to share, which they value and respect.

Listening more than speaking allows them to learn and grow. They understand that wisdom often comes from observing and understanding the thoughts of others.

Genuine people not only value—but prioritize listening so much that without this focus on hearing others, they may risk missing out on valuable insights, failing to deeply connect with others, and undermining their genuine nature.

Bottom line: It’s in the authenticity

The complexities of human nature and individuality often have profound associations with our psychological makeup.

One such connection is the relationship between genuine people and a psychological concept known as “congruence”.

This concept, popularized by humanistic psychologist Carl Rogers, refers to the alignment between a person’s inner feelings and their outward behavior, playing a crucial role in personal authenticity.

For genuine individuals, congruence might be a key factor in their authenticity.

Their actions, words, and feelings are in harmony, creating a sense of inner peace and credibility in their interactions with others.

Whether it’s engaging in deep conversations, showing empathy to others, practicing humility, or valuing honesty, the underlying congruence reinforces their authenticity.

Reflecting on this, Carl Rogers once stated, “What I am is good enough if I would only be it openly.”

This sentiment highlights the essence of congruence and authenticity.

It suggests that the path to being a genuine person lies in openly and confidently being one’s true self.

This could serve as a guiding principle for those striving to be more genuine – recognizing and embracing one’s genuine self, with all its imperfections, is the first step towards genuine personal growth.