Become More Genuine

You Are More Trustworthy and Likable When You’re Genuine.

No one likes people who are fake. In the age of social media, it’s easier than ever to create an image that’s not genuine. But fakes are easily recognized, online and in person.

We are naturally drawn to people who are genuine. It’s a personality trait that is highly valued and appealing. People who are authentic and real are more likeable. They aren’t shallow and insincere.

We feel they are trustworthy because if they are true to themselves, they are likelier to be truthful and honest with us.

If you’d like to become more genuine, here are some helpful tips to help you achieve that worthy goal.

Be Willing to Admit Your Mistakes.

Don’t pretend to be someone you’re not. Genuine people admit their weaknesses, mistakes and failures. They don’t try to cover up their inadequacies. After all, nobody’s perfect. Consequently, they are patient and have acceptance of others’ shortcomings as well.

You may need to release any defense mechanisms and feel vulnerable to be authentic, but being honest and upfront is a better way to live.

 Don’t Worry About What Others Think.

Genuine people aren’t concerned whether others like them or not. They know you can’t please everybody. When you stop trying to make people like you, then you can stay true to who you really are. Other people’s opinions don’t get in the way of doing what you feel is right or holding unpopular positions.

Develop a Strong Self-Esteem.

When you have a solid self-esteem, you are less defensive about things. You can be authentic because you’re comfortable revealing who you are. Having a strong self-esteem that’s not fragile allows you to accept failure, absorb criticism and admit your faults. Because you have confidence in yourself, you can be natural and not put on airs or pretend to be someone you’re not.

Be Vulnerable and Speak Your Mind.

Being genuine is the willingness to say what’s on your mind in a respectful manner. You easily share your true thoughts and opinions. You say what you mean and mean what you say, without expecting or needing to convince others you’re right. You’re okay with disagreeing.

Genuine people seek out real conversations. They don’t engage in gossip, disingenuous comments or insincere flattery.

Be a Good Listener.

If you want to be more genuine, really listen to people. That means comfortable direct eye contact and completely engaged in what the other person is saying, not checking your cell phone. Often people are formulating their response and waiting for their turn to talk. But a genuine person doesn’t engage in the conversation with their own agendas and baggage. They carefully listen and sincerely respond. Their conversations are purer, deeper and more interesting.

There are many, many benefits to being genuine to yourself and those around you. When you’re authentic, you get along better with your co-workers and other relationships.

You’ll also attract genuine people into your life. To quote Dr. Wayne Dyer: “You do not attract what you want. You attract what you are.”

When you’re genuine, you’re living an authentic life that reflects who you are. That’s something the world could use more of these days.