Staying Authentic When Those Around You Are Not

When we are faced with fake behavior, we don't necessarily know what to do with it. Without even realizing it, our internal interpreters are asking questions like:

• Are they hiding something?
• Can I trust them?
• Do I need to watch my back or be careful of what I say?

We are less likely to feel safe enough to be vulnerable with people who are inauthentic, and when we perceive someone isn’t being real with us, we naturally feel guarded around them.

Don't take their difficulty personally.

Dealing with people who seem inauthentic can feel insulting. It can feel as though a fake person is “lying ” with their behaviors, which feels uncomfortable.

When people struggle with being authentic, it is usually a reflection of their own relationship with themselves; in short, it has nothing to do with you. There may be some underlying social anxiety , fear of judgment, or other reasons for the struggle, none of which is connected to interacting with you specifically.

Think about authenticity as a skill (because it really is).

It is easier to put on whatever mask seems fitting for the situation and show the world what you think they want to see. Showing up as yourself, without social masking, is brave, and this is not something that comes easily to some people.

If you have a skill that others struggle with, that has nothing to do with you and it should not minimize your own access to that part of yourself. In fact, someone who struggles with authenticity is likely observing your ability and wishing they could access that level of comfort with themselves.

Stay grounded and centered.

If you find yourself veering off course when you are around fake people, set aside some time alone to reconnect with yourself and try some mindfulness exercises. Close your eyes and center yourself with deep breathing; notice the physical sensations of your body.

Engage with your senses and listen to the sounds of your environment, the colors, smells, and how you feel in your mind and body. Allow your face, neck, and shoulders to relax; shake off the pretension that can hang heavy when dealing with fakeness.

Show compassion.

If you are feeling brave, ask the person who is struggling with authenticity a few compassionate questions or comments. This works best if it is a one-on-one situation, to avoid putting them on the spot or potentially embarrassing them.

When an authentic person invites someone to share vulnerability, it is a powerful invitation and can be emotionally moving at times.

Even asking simple questions such as “how are you, really?” (and taking time to listen!) or offering observations about the person's strengths can make room for authenticity. This invitation can feel refreshing for people who are not generally able to share true feelings with others. It may be your invitation to share that helps them feel more comfortable being genuine and authentic in that moment and beyond.