Word-Of-the-Week #995: Genuine
August 31, 2023 by Susan Clarke
Genuine – not pretended; sincerely felt or expressed.
How good are you at engaging in active listening? Do you give your undivided attention and show genuine interest?
This week features the first part from “If someone displays these 8 behaviors, they have a genuine heart,” by Lachlan Brown, from HackSpirit.
In a world full of filters and online personas, spotting someone who’s genuinely real can feel like a challenge.
But genuine people are out there, and they stand out not just by what they say, but how they behave.
They aren’t always just smiles and kind words; genuine hearts combine honesty with kindness, strength with openness.
Wondering how to recognize such people?
Or maybe curious if you’re one of them?
I’m going to break down the 8 behaviors that highlight a truly genuine heart.
Read on and see how simplicity and authenticity can shine even in today’s complex world.
- Active Listening
One of the most telltale signs of a genuine heart is the ability to truly listen.
We’re not just talking about nodding along or hearing words.
Genuine individuals engage in active listening.
They give their undivided attention, making eye contact, responding appropriately, and showing genuine interest in what’s being said.
In an era of constant distractions, where everyone’s in a hurry to put forth their viewpoint, someone who takes the time to really hear you out is like a breath of fresh air.
These individuals don’t just wait for their turn to speak; they immerse themselves in your words, seeking to understand rather than to reply.
And in that act of genuine listening, they show that they value and respect you.
- Consistent Authenticity
I remember an old friend from my school days, Jamie.
Whether he was around the popular group or just hanging out with a couple of us on the fringes, Jamie was always… well, Jamie.
There was no shift in persona depending on his audience.
He would crack the same goofy jokes, share his genuine thoughts, and never felt the need to put on a facade just to fit in.
This behavior, my dear readers, is the mark of someone with a genuine heart.
They don’t have a “social mask” they wear in one setting and a different one for another.
They are consistent in their authenticity. It’s a refreshing quality, isn’t it?
In a world where many people contort themselves to fit various molds, genuine-hearted folks remain steadfast in being true to who they are, no matter where they are or who they’re with.
Their authenticity is their signature, and it’s as reliable as a favorite old tune.
- Embracing Vulnerability
Now, this one might catch you off guard. In a society that often equates strength with stoicism and unflappability, here’s a twist: genuine-hearted people aren’t afraid to show their vulnerable side.
It sounds counterintuitive, right? We’re taught to wear armor, to be invincible, and to never let ’em see you sweat.
But those with genuine hearts understand something profound: there’s immense strength in vulnerability.
They know that admitting when they’re wrong, asking for help, or sharing their fears doesn’t make them weak.
On the contrary, it takes guts to say, “I don’t know,” “I’m scared,” or “I messed up.”
By doing so, they not only build authentic connections but also pave the way for others to be real, too.
After all, it’s in our shared vulnerabilities that some of the most genuine human connections are formed.
So next time you see someone openly wearing their heart on their sleeve, know that it’s not a sign of weakness, but a testament to their genuine strength.
This week’s focus is all about being genuine. Do you display consistent authenticity? Are you comfortable being who you are at home and at work? Can you embrace vulnerability and ask for help when needed?
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