7 circumstances in life where a person’s true colors always come out, according to psychology

It’s easy to be kind, patient, and agreeable when life is smooth sailing. But the real test of character? That happens when things get tough.

Psychology suggests that people reveal their true colors in specific situations—moments when emotions run high, stakes are real, and there’s no time to put on a mask.

Some people show resilience, empathy, and integrity. Others? Not so much.

If you want to truly understand someone, pay attention to how they behave in these seven circumstances. That’s when you’ll see who they really are.

1) In the face of adversity

When smooth sailing turns into turbulent waters, that’s when our true selves emerge. As life throws curveballs, the facades we often put up start to crumble, revealing our core identity beneath.

It’s in these moments that our resilience is tested. Do we rise to the occasion or do we crumble under pressure? This is not about success or failure, but about how we handle these situations.

In my experience, adversity has been a powerful tool for self-discovery. It has allowed me to understand my strengths and weaknesses, my fears and passions, my limits and potentials.

It is through adversity that the essence of our character becomes evident. Remember, it’s not just about weathering the storm, but how we navigate it that truly defines us. So embrace the rough patches, for they reveal who you truly are.

2) When encountering diversity

How someone reacts to diversity—whether cultural, racial, or ideological—says a lot about their true character.

It’s easy to claim open-mindedness in theory, but when faced with perspectives that challenge personal beliefs, the real test begins.

In my travels, I’ve had countless moments where I was the outsider, immersed in unfamiliar customs and ways of thinking.

Each encounter forced me to confront my own assumptions—some of which I didn’t even realize I had.

It’s humbling to recognize that growth isn’t just about learning new things; it’s also about unlearning the biases we carry.

Diversity isn’t just about tolerance—it’s about curiosity, respect, and the willingness to expand beyond what feels comfortable. How we respond in these moments determines whether we close ourselves off or allow new perspectives to shape us for the better.

3) During personal growth

The journey of personal growth is a powerful catalyst for revealing our true selves. It’s in the process of self-expansion that we confront our deepest fears, challenge our limits, and recognize our potential.

I’ve found an incredible tool to expedite this process, a masterclass titled “Free Your Mind” with the shaman Rudá Iandê. This journey helps you transcend limiting beliefs and societal conditioning, bringing you closer to your authentic self.

The masterclass breaks down common myths in the spiritual world and guides you in developing your own cosmovision. A particularly empowering exercise is overcoming self-imposed limitations and embracing your true potential. It advocates a mindset shift from frustration to acceptance, aligning your actions with your personal values.

If you’re interested in deepening your understanding of yourself and breaking free from societal conditioning, I’d highly recommend joining the masterclass. It’s a profound step towards personal development and emotional liberation. Start your journey now.

4) When given power or authority

I’ve always believed that power doesn’t change people—it reveals who they’ve been all along.

When someone is put in a position of authority, whether at work, in relationships, or in social settings, their true nature comes to the surface.

Some rise to the occasion with fairness, empathy, and responsibility. Others become domineering, selfish, or manipulative.

Think about the people you’ve seen step into leadership roles. Did they uplift those around them, or did they use their position to serve themselves?

A person with genuine integrity remains consistent no matter their status, treating everyone with respect regardless of whether they hold power or not.

On the flip side, those who crave control often show their worst traits when given the slightest authority.

A great test of character is how someone handles power when there are no consequences for abusing it. Do they stay humble and use it wisely, or do they let it inflate their ego? The way a person treats others when they don’t have to be kind is a true reflection of who they really are.

This leads me to the next point…

5) When interacting with those who can’t offer anything in return

Our interactions with those who can’t offer us anything in return—be it power, status, or wealth—reveal a lot about our character. Are we still kind, respectful, and considerate? Or do we treat them differently?

This is a true test of empathy and dignity. It uncovers whether we value people for their inherent worth or for what they can offer us.

I’ve always believed in the fundamental dignity of every individual and strive to cultivate relationships based on mutual respect and cooperation.

These interactions remind me that success is not just about personal gain but about contributing to a more compassionate and equitable world.

So yes, how we treat others—especially those who can’t offer us anything in return—reveals more about us than them. It’s a reflection of our true colors shining through.

6) When giving and receiving feedback

Feedback, whether giving or receiving, offers a surprising glimpse into our true selves. It’s easy to assume that how we react to criticism says a lot about us, which it does. But equally revealing is how we deliver feedback to others.

When offering feedback, do we speak with empathy and respect or do we use it as a platform to assert dominance and superiority? Similarly, when receiving feedback, do we see it as an opportunity for growth or as an attack on our ego?

Having been in numerous leadership positions, I’ve found that one’s approach to feedback is a telltale sign of their character. It speaks volumes about their level of empathy, self-awareness, and commitment to personal growth.

Remember, feedback is not just about the words said or heard; it’s about the intention behind them. It’s a test of character and authenticity—one that can truly reveal our true colors.

7) When faced with ethical dilemmas

Ethical dilemmas have a way of cutting through appearances and exposing who we truly are.

When there’s no clear right or wrong answer—just a choice between integrity and convenience—our real values come to the surface.

Do we stand by our principles even when no one is watching? Do we do what’s right even when it comes at a personal cost?

Or do we bend our morals when it’s easier, more profitable, or socially acceptable?

These moments test our character in ways that casual, everyday decisions never could.

Throughout my journey, I’ve faced ethical dilemmas that forced me to take a hard look at myself. Sometimes, the right path was uncomfortable. Other times, I had to make a choice that others didn’t agree with.

But looking back, I realize that every decision shaped the person I am today.

How someone handles ethical crossroads speaks volumes about their true nature. It’s one thing to talk about honesty and fairness—it’s another to live by those values when it actually matters.

 

Conclusion

At the end of the day, a person’s true colors aren’t revealed through words or appearances—they come out in real-life situations when emotions are raw and the stakes are high. Pay attention to how people behave in these circumstances, and you’ll gain deeper insight into their character.

But self-awareness isn’t just about recognizing others—it’s also about understanding yourself.

How do you react under pressure? What do your behaviors in difficult situations say about you? True personal growth comes from honest self-reflection and a willingness to break free from patterns that no longer serve you.

For those ready to dig deeper into their own self-discovery, I highly recommend the “Free Your Mind” masterclass with Rudá Iandê. This insightful journey, which I had the privilege to help produce, is designed to guide you towards breaking free from societal conditioning and embracing your authentic self.

Throughout this masterclass, you’ll have the opportunity to dismantle spiritual myths, develop your personal cosmovision, and overcome self-imposed limitations. It’s a transformative experience that fosters emotional resilience and mental clarity, aligning your actions with your personal values.

Embark on this journey towards self-discovery and authenticity. Join the “Free Your Mind” masterclass today. It’s a step towards revealing your true colors and creating a life that truly resonates with who you are.

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Justin Brown

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