Truly understanding someone can take years—or just minutes—if you know where to look. It’s not about judging appearances or relying on what people say about themselves. The real clues lie in subtle behaviors and instinctive reactions that speak louder than words.
Carl Jung, the renowned Swiss psychiatrist and founder of analytical psychology, believed that a person’s character is most evident in everyday, unguarded moments. According to Jung, if you want to uncover someone’s true nature, there are two key behaviors to observe. His simple yet powerful insight offers a deeper way to see people as they truly are.
Two Subtle Clues That Reveal True Character
Jung believed that character isn’t revealed through grand declarations or curated personas, but in how people act when there’s no reward or audience. He identified two key indicators:
1. How a person treats those who can offer nothing in return
Watch how someone interacts with people who hold no power—like service workers, strangers, or those who are vulnerable. When someone is kind, respectful, and considerate in these situations, it reflects empathy and integrity. In contrast, those who are dismissive or rude often reveal arrogance or a lack of moral depth.
2. How a person handles frustration
A person’s reaction when things go wrong—when they face delays, failure, or unexpected challenges—is incredibly telling. Do they lash out, blame others, or lose their temper? Or do they stay calm, take responsibility, and show resilience? These moments test emotional maturity, humility, and self-control. As Jung noted, character is not revealed in comfort, but in crisis.
