It can be challenging to hold onto your authenticity when you are around people who seem fake. Whether it is in a work setting, community interactions, or any other social encounter, it can be awkward to know how to respond with...

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 ...

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 m...

On the surface, it seems as though others’ lack of authenticity or even outright “fake” behavior shouldn’t impact us much. After all, we’re a pleasantly open “you do you” culture right now, so what does it really matter?

Dealing with inauthentic people very much impacts our own thoughts, f...

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?

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 ...