Living authentically is all about being true to yourself—knowing who you are, embracing it, and not apologizing for it. It’s about making choices that reflect your values, not what others expect of you. Here are 15 habits of people who live their lives authentically and unapologetically, and some tips on how you can do the same.
1. They Know Who They Really Are
People who live authentically take the time to understand themselves and learn their values, strengths, and weaknesses. They know exactly what makes them tick, what they stand for, and what they won’t tolerate. It’s this self-awareness that keeps them grounded, even when life throws challenges their way.
Tip: Start journaling to explore your thoughts, feelings, and values. Getting to know yourself better is the best way to help you learn who you are.
2. They Speak Up, Even When It’s Hard
Authentic people are outspoken and aren’t afraid to express their thoughts and feelings, even when it’s uncomfortable. They choose honesty over people-pleasing because they know that being truthful is the most important thing above all else.
Tip: Practice sharing your honest opinion in small ways—speak up in a meeting or tell a friend how you really feel. You’ll build confidence in your truth.
3. They Don’t Rely on Others for Validation
They’re confident in their decisions and don’t seek approval from others to feel good about themselves. Authentic people trust themselves and don’t need constant praise or external validation to know their worth.
Tip: The next time you accomplish something, take a moment to acknowledge your success internally before you look for external validation.
4. They Set Boundaries Without Guilt
Authentic people know how to set and enforce boundaries. They understand the power of saying “no” when they don’t want to do something, and they know that doing this is a form of self-respect. They don’t feel guilty about protecting their energy.
Tip: Start by setting a small boundary—whether it’s saying no to an extra commitment or carving out some personal time—and notice how it feels.
5. They’re Not Afraid to Be Vulnerable
People who live authentically aren’t scared to show their true selves, even the parts that aren’t perfect. They know that being vulnerable doesn’t make them weak—it’s what makes real connection possible.
Tip: Share a personal story or experience with someone you trust. Practicing vulnerability builds stronger relationships.
6. They Don’t Apologize for Who They Are
They don’t feel the need to change or hide parts of themselves to make others more comfortable. Whether it’s their quirks, beliefs, or even their lifestyle choices, authentic people own who they are—flaws and all.
Tip: Take pride in something unique about yourself, and don’t feel like you have to explain it to anyone.
7. They Make Decisions Based on Their Own Values
Instead of doing what others think they should, authentic people always make decisions that align with their personal values. Whether it’s a career move or a lifestyle choice, it has to feel right for them, even if it means going against the grain.
Tip: The next time you’re making a decision, pause and ask yourself, “Does this align with my values?” Then let that guide your choice.
8. They Don’t Waste Time Comparing Themselves to Others
People who live authentically know that everyone is on their own journey, so they don’t torture themselves with comparisons. They’re focused on their own growth and what makes them happy, not someone else’s version of success.
Tip: Whenever you catch yourself comparing your life to someone else’s, remind yourself that their journey is theirs.
9. They Accept Themselves—Flaws and All
Everyone has flaws, but authentic people are comfortable with who they are, even the imperfect parts. Instead of beating themselves up for mistakes or weaknesses, they practice self-compassion and focus on growing from their mistakes and flaws.
Tip: The next time you make a mistake, be kind to yourself. Acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes and use it as a learning opportunity.
10. They Follow What Truly Excites Them
Authentic people aren’t hung up on society’s definition of success; they pursue what lights them up inside—whether it’s their career, hobbies, or lifestyle choices. Instead of doing what’s expected, they chase what makes them feel alive, even if it doesn’t make sense to anyone else.
Tip: Take one small step toward something that excites you, whether it’s a new hobby, side project, or lifestyle choice.
11. They Get Comfortable With Discomfort
Growth often comes with discomfort, and authentic people are willing to embrace that. They know that stepping outside their comfort zone is part of growing as a person, whether it means having tough conversations, taking risks, or pursuing something uncertain.
Tip: Identify one area in your life where you’ve been avoiding discomfort, and try to take a small, courageous step forward.
12. They Surround Themselves With Real People
Authentic people attract and nurture relationships with others who are genuine. They don’t waste time with inauthentic people; instead, they value deep, honest connections and distance themselves from people who aren’t supportive or who try to change them.
Tip: Take stock of your relationships—invest more time in the people who love and accept you as you are, and set boundaries with those who don’t.
13. They Take Responsibility for Their Actions
Living unapologetically doesn’t mean avoiding accountability. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Authentic people own their actions, good or bad. They don’t make excuses or shift blame, but they do take responsibility and learn from their mistakes.
Tip: The next time something goes wrong, resist the urge to blame something else. Instead, think about what you can learn from the situation and how you can improve next time.
14. They Practice Gratitude Daily
Gratitude is an important part of living authentically. Authentic people are incredibly appreciative of what they have and where they are in life. Practicing this helps them stay grounded, content, and focused on what truly matters.
Tip: Start a gratitude journal and write down three things you’re grateful for each day to keep yourself focused on the positives and not the negatives in life.
15. They Live Every Day With Purpose and Intention
Authentic people don’t live on autopilot. They’re intentional with their time, energy, and choices. Whether it’s their work, relationships, or how they spend their days, everything they do is a reflection of them and their values.
Tip: Take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you, and identify one area where you can be more intentional with your time or energy.