8 signs you are dealing with a fake person

From the Personal Branding Blog

We’ve all crossed paths with someone who isn’t genuine. But sometimes, it’s tough to spot.

Identifying a fake person isn’t always easy as they often master the art of deception. They can appear charming, engaging and friendly, while hiding their true nature.

Spotting these individuals early on can save us a lot of heartache and trouble. And luckily, there are telltale signs that can help us identify these people in our lives.

In this article, we’ll explore eight signs that you might be dealing with a fake person. So sit tight, and let’s dive into this together.

1) Inconsistency in their stories

One of the most telling signs of a fake person is inconsistency. They have a habit of changing their stories, opinions, or attitudes based on who they’re interacting with.

Why? Because they’re trying to please everyone or create an image that isn’t true to who they are. They might tell you one thing and then say something completely different to another person.

This inconsistency can be quite confusing and frustrating. One day, they might seem to be your biggest supporter, and the next day, they could be acting as if they barely know you.

So, keep an eye out for this behavior. If you notice someone constantly changing their tune, it might be a sign that they aren’t being genuine.

Remember, authenticity is marked by consistency. A genuine person will usually maintain the same attitudes and opinions, no matter who they’re talking to. But a fake person? They can flip their script as quickly as flipping a coin.

2) They’re never the ones at fault

Another sign you’re dealing with a fake person is their inability to take responsibility for their actions. They always have an excuse ready and are never the ones at fault. It’s always someone else’s mistake, not theirs.

I remember this one time when I had a friend, let’s call him Adam. Adam was the kind of person who would never accept when he was wrong. Even in situations where it was clear that he messed up, he would find a way to shift the blame onto others.

For instance, once he forgot to pick up some important documents for a group project we were working on. Instead of owning up to his mistake, he blamed another group member for not reminding him.

Over time, I realized this was a pattern. Adam was not genuine; he was always playing the victim and never taking responsibility for his actions. It was then I understood that I was dealing with a fake person.

So, if you see someone constantly refusing to own up to their mistakes and shifting the blame onto others, be cautious. This might be a sign that they’re not as genuine as they appear to be.

3) They crave attention

Fake people often have an insatiable appetite for attention. They desire to be the center of attention and will go to great lengths to ensure they’re noticed. This could include exaggerating stories, showing off, or even creating drama when things are too calm.

This behavior is rooted in psychology. According to research, individuals who constantly seek attention are often dealing with feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem. They crave validation from others because they struggle to find it within themselves.

So, if you find someone always trying to steal the spotlight or turning every conversation towards themselves, it might be a sign that they’re not being genuine.

4) They’re quick to judge

Another trait of a fake person is their tendency to be judgmental. They often have an opinion about everyone and everything.

It’s like they have a compulsion to pass judgment on others, usually without knowing the full story. They might comment on someone’s lifestyle, choices, or even their appearance without any provocation.

This kind of behavior often stems from their need to feel superior and it’s a clear sign of their own insecurities. By pointing out the flaws in others, they try to divert attention from their own shortcomings.

So, if you notice someone who’s overly critical or judgemental of others, chances are you’re dealing with a fake person. Genuine people, on the other hand, tend to be more accepting and understanding.

5) They lack empathy

A key characteristic of a genuine person is empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Fake people, in contrast, often lack this essential trait.

They may seem interested in your problems, but their concern usually feels superficial or forced. Their lack of genuine empathy can leave you feeling unheard and unsupported, even when they are physically present.

This lack of empathy often stems from their self-centered nature. They are so caught up in maintaining their own facade that they struggle to genuinely connect with others on a deeper level.

Remember, a true friend will always try to understand your feelings and will stand by you during tough times. If you’re dealing with someone who seems indifferent to your struggles, it’s possible that they’re not as genuine as they appear.

6) They break their promises

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that actions speak louder than words. And fake people are often full of words but lacking in action. They make big promises, but rarely follow through.

An experience that comes to mind is when I was planning a big event. A friend volunteered to help with several important tasks. She made grand promises about what she would do, but when the time came, she was nowhere to be found.

This left me in a bind and made me realize that her promises were just empty words. It was a clear sign of her lack of authenticity.

So, if you notice someone constantly breaking their promises or failing to follow through on their commitments, it might be a sign you’re dealing with a fake person. Genuine people value their word and try their best to keep their promises.

7) They gossip a lot

Gossiping is another common trait of a fake person. They seem to thrive on sharing the latest rumors or scandalous information about others. They might even spread personal information that was shared with them in confidence.

This type of behavior is not only disrespectful but also a clear sign of their lack of authenticity. Genuine people respect the privacy of others and avoid getting involved in gossip. They understand the value of trust and wouldn’t compromise it for the sake of a juicy story.

So, if you find yourself in the company of someone who can’t resist sharing the latest gossip, be wary. This might be a sign that they’re not as genuine as they appear to be.

8) They’re only around during the good times

The true test of a person’s character is how they behave during tough times. Fake people often disappear when things get rough. They’re all smiles and support when everything’s going well, but the moment you hit a rough patch, they’re nowhere to be found.

Genuine people stick around through thick and thin. They’re there to celebrate your successes, but they’re also there to help you navigate challenges. If someone is only around during your good times, it’s a clear sign that they’re not genuine.

Reflection: Authenticity is a choice

Navigating the complexities of human interaction is a challenge we all face. Identifying genuine people from those who aren’t can be tricky, but these signs can serve as a guide to discerning authenticity.

The underlying thread in all these signs is the absence of empathy, consistency, and respect for others – the cornerstones of any genuine relationship. Ultimately, being genuine or fake is a conscious choice that individuals make.

Maya Angelou, a renowned poet and civil rights activist, once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

So as we navigate our social sphere, let’s strive to be the kind of people who make others feel seen, heard, and valued. Because in the end, authenticity isn’t just about how we present ourselves to the world but also how we treat others in the process.

Understanding these signs not only helps us spot fake people around us but also serves as a mirror for self-reflection. It prompts us to ask ourselves if we are living authentically. It’s an invitation to be better, to choose authenticity over pretense – not just for others, but for ourselves too.

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