We all encounter different types of people in our lives. Some people leave a good impression on us, while others leave us feeling terrible. Figuring out who is genuine and who is fake can be difficult, but it’s essential to do so to avoid disappointments.
Fake people are a menace in our society. They are insincere, manipulative, and self-centered. They can be difficult to spot, but with a little keenness and awareness, you can learn how to identify them. Here are nine signs to help you spot a fake person:
1. Attention Seekers and People Pleasers
Do you know someone who is always full of insincere compliments and fake interest in making themselves look better? They are constantly seeking attention and will go out of their way to gain it. They will often tell outrageous stories to get your attention or make exaggerated claims about themselves. These people are people pleasers, and they do not have your best interest at heart.
2. Big Braggarts
Do you know someone who loves to talk about themselves and their achievements non-stop? They are self-centered and only concerned about their accomplishments. They may also tend to name drop and show off to try to impress you. The truth is, they are only interested in making themselves look good and not in anything you have to say.
3. Body Language and Words Don’t Match
Fake people may pretend to be interested in something you say, but their body language tells a different story. They may look disinterested, avoid eye contact, or cross their arms. Their body language gives them away, and it’s essential to trust your gut instinct when communicating with them.
4. Exaggerate and Lie
Fake people always try to one-up others and come off as pompous and self-centered. They may exaggerate their experiences or achievements to make themselves look better. They will also lie to you to get what they want, and they have no qualms about doing so.
5. Leave Your Side as Soon as They Recognize Someone Else
Fake people will use you to comfort themselves, and they will move on to someone more important as soon as they arrive. They will ditch you without a second thought if they spot someone who they think is of more value to them. They only associate with you if they see something they can benefit from.
6. Poor Listeners
Fake people dominate conversations, cut people off, and need to be the center of attention. They have no interest in hearing your point of view and will interrupt you to make their point. They are bad listeners and only want to hear themselves talk.
7. Talk About Other People
One of the easiest ways to spot a fake person is by the way they talk about others. They tear others down, spread gossip, and like to play the victim. They will say negative things about someone behind their back, or they may act friendly to their face, then badmouth them when they are not around.
8. Emotionally Distant
Fake people can’t stand to be emotionally vulnerable, and they avoid sharing personal things about themselves. They only show you what they want you to see, and they will never reveal their true selves to you. They keep a distance emotionally to avoid getting hurt or to maintain control over their emotions and vulnerabilities.
9. It’s All About Convenience
Fake people will dictate when and where to meet, what to do, and they only care about what you can do for them. They have no interest in making plans that work for both of you, and they will never bend over backward for you. They expect you to cater to their needs and only show up when it’s convenient for them.
It’s essential to keep fake people out of your inner circle as they can be detrimental to your mental health and wellbeing. The behavior displayed by fake people is often due to unresolved past traumas, making them develop defense mechanisms to protect themselves. If you spot these signs, be cautious and don’t let just anyone into your inner circle.
Remember, in life, it’s crucial to surround yourself with people who have your best interest at heart and who will be there for you when you need them the most.
Now that you know how to spot fake people, be keen, and protect your inner circle.
Have you ever had to deal with a fake person? How did you identify them, and what steps did you take to protect yourself? Share your experiences in the comment section below.
