15 signs you’re an authentic person, according to psychology

Ever wondered if you’re the real deal? You know, an authentic person who is true to themselves no matter what?

Well, being authentic isn’t just about speaking your mind all the time. It’s really about your actions matching your beliefs and feelings, even when it’s not easy.

Let’s explore 10 signs you’re an authentic person, as backed by psychology.

1. You’re not afraid to show your true self

First things first, authentic people are not scared to show their true selves. They are comfortable being who they are, warts and all.

They don’t put on a mask or pretend to be someone they’re not, just to fit in or please others.

Authentic people understand that nobody’s perfect and they’re okay with that. They embrace their imperfections as much as they celebrate their strengths.

So, if you’re someone who’s comfortable in your own skin and doesn’t feel the need to put on a show for the world, congrats! You show the first sign of being an authentic person.

2. You express your feelings honestly

An authentic person doesn’t shy away from expressing their feelings. Whether they’re feeling overjoyed, a bit blue, or downright angry, they’re not afraid to let others know. They don’t bottle up their emotions or hide them away.

But it’s not about throwing tantrums or oversharing. It’s about being open and honest about your feelings, without hurting others.

So if you’re someone who can express how you really feel in a respectful way, then that’s another sign you’re an authentic person!

3. You stand up for what you believe in

Being an authentic person also means standing up for what you believe in, even when it’s not popular. You have your own values and principles, and you’re not willing to compromise them for anything.

I remember a time when I was working on a project with a team. Everyone was keen to take a shortcut to finish the work faster, but I knew it was against the company’s policy.

It was tough, but I stood up for what I believed in and voiced my concerns. Yes, it wasn’t the most popular opinion, but at least I was true to myself.

If you’re someone who stands their ground and upholds their beliefs, even when it’s challenging or inconvenient, then this is another sign that you’re an authentic person.

4. You’re a good listener

Authentic people are often good listeners. They don’t just wait for their turn to speak but genuinely listen to understand what the other person is saying.

Good listeners are more likely to be perceived as authentic people. This is because they show empathy and understanding, which are key traits of authenticity.

If you’re someone who pays attention and values other people’s thoughts and opinions, then you’re showing another sign of being an authentic person.

5. You’re not judgmental

Here’s something that truly sets authentic people apart: they don’t judge others. They understand that everyone has their own journey and their own battles to fight.

Being non-judgmental doesn’t mean you agree with everything everyone does. It just means you respect their right to be themselves, just as you want them to respect your right to be you.

Think about it this way: when we judge others, we’re often projecting our own insecurities onto them. Authentic people don’t need to do this because they’re comfortable with who they are.

If you find yourself willing to accept people for who they are, without passing judgment, then you’re showing another beautiful sign of being an authentic person.

It’s a trait that makes the world a kinder place – and isn’t that something we all need a little more of?

6. You admit when you’re wrong

One thing that’s hard for many of us to do is admit when we’re wrong. But for authentic people, it’s a part of life.

Let me share something from my own experience.

A while back, I was involved in a disagreement with a friend. I was convinced I was right and defended my point of view passionately.

But later, after reflecting on our conversation, I realized my mistake. It wasn’t easy, but I reached out and admitted I was wrong.

Authentic people are not afraid to admit their mistakes because they understand that being wrong is not a sign of weakness but an opportunity to learn and grow.

If you can swallow your pride and admit when you’re wrong, you’re demonstrating another key sign of being an authentic person.

7. You’re not scared of failure

Failure sucks. It’s a blow to the ego, it hurts, and it can make us feel like we’re not good enough. But you know what? Authentic people aren’t scared of failure. They’re not scared because they know that failure is just part of the journey.

Authentic people see failure as a stepping stone, not a stumbling block. They understand that every time they fail, they’re getting one step closer to success. They don’t let the fear of failure stop them from trying new things or chasing their dreams.

If you’re out there giving it your all, even when there’s a chance you might fail, then you’ve got the spirit of an authentic person. Keep going, keep failing, and keep growing. You’re doing great.

8. You don’t seek validation from others

Authentic people feel good about themselves without needing others to tell them they’re doing a good job. They have a strong sense of self-worth and don’t seek validation from external sources.

People who rely less on external validation are more likely to display authentic behavior and experience higher self-esteem and life satisfaction.

If you’re not constantly fishing for compliments or approval from others, that’s another sign you’re an authentic person.

9. You’re comfortable with saying no

Authentic people understand the power of saying no. They value their time and energy and know that they can’t please everyone.

Here’s a little story from my life. I used to be a ‘yes’ person. I’d take on every task, agree to every favor, and end up overwhelmed and stressed. Then one day, I realized that it was okay to say no. And once I started doing that, I felt more in control of my life.

If you’re comfortable with saying no when you need to, without feeling guilty or worrying about disappointing others, then you’re showing another sign of being an authentic person. It’s a sign of respect for yourself and your boundaries.

10. You live in the present

Let’s be real, it’s so easy to get caught up in the past or worry about the future. But authentic people, they live in the present. They don’t let past mistakes or future worries hold them back.

Living in the present doesn’t mean ignoring the past or not planning for the future. It means not getting stuck there. It means learning from your past, preparing for your future, but most importantly, living fully in the now.

If you find yourself savoring the moment, truly immersing yourself in the here and now, then give yourself a pat on the back – that’s another sign of being an authentic person.

11. You’re kind to yourself

Finally, let’s talk about self-love. Authentic people know how important it is to be kind to themselves. They treat themselves with love and respect, just as they would treat others.

Being kind to yourself isn’t about being selfish or narcissistic. It’s about acknowledging that you’re human, you make mistakes, and that’s okay. It’s about taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical health.

So if you know how to love and respect yourself, even when you mess up or things don’t go as planned, then congratulations – you’re showing the final sign of being an authentic person.

12. You have strong relationships.

Authentic people tend to cultivate healthy, supportive relationships.

They make time for the people they care about.

They actively seek meaningful connections.

Being honest and genuine with loved ones makes for richer emotional experiences and deeper bonds.

13. You follow your passion.

Following your heart is truly authentic.

When you pursue your passions with genuine interest and determination, it aligns with your values and inner sense of purpose.

Authentic people do not live halfheartedly – they fully engage with what brings them joy and fulfillment.

14. You take responsibility for your actions.

This can be one of the hardest things about being authentic.

But owning up to your choices—good and bad— shows character and accountability.

Everyone makes mistakes, but how we handle these instances demonstrates courage and our authentic commitment to growth.

15. You’re curious and always learning.

Authentic people maintain a childlike curiosity about the world, never being too proud to say “I don’t know”.

Exploring new concepts and perspectives is key to expanding knowledge and deepening personal understanding.

It shows humility and an openness to experiences that may change or affirm established beliefs.