Being real builds trust, strengthens relationships, and makes life simpler. These quotes will inspire you to drop the act and keep it genuine.

You probably know someone who never pretends or tries to impress. Such people are magnetic, refreshing, and rare. It’s not always easy to keep it real, but those who do show courage, honesty, and a willingness to get uncomfortable.

I compiled these quotes as a reminder of the power of staying genuine, and to encourage us all to live without pretense.

When Being Real Is Hard

“Being real is the hardest thing to do when everybody is watching you.” – P.S. Jagadeesh Kumar

“It is better to be hated for what you are than to be loved for what you are not.”
– André Gide, Autumn Leaves

“Are you sincere? Are you yourself? Are you as you look? You don’t have a mask on your face? You speak what you think? Then you are real, then you are not fake!” – Mehmet Murat ildan

“It’s really important for women in the public eye to be open – these pop stars who don’t look, behave, speak like real women – that’s not fair on women. Being real, honest, authentic – too many women in the public eye are afraid to be authentic because they are afraid they will be judged.” – Dawn O’Porter

“Being real has nothing to do with the world. But, the world has a lot to do with the real you.” – Hiral Nagda

“Being real in pro wrestling has paid off. Just being myself – that really translated to the fans.” – Matt Riddle

Stay Real, No Matter What

“I’m a big fan of honesty and being real, so to me, it seemed like Wynonna was a very human character in a very supernatural circumstance. I was like, ‘I can do that!'” – Melanie Scrofano

“That’s something we real big on – just being real, authentic, being yourself, not letting this lifestyle change you.” – YG

“If you can be anything, be real.” – Nikki Rowe

“An original is worth more than a copy.” – Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun

“To me, being real is being yourself. You know, that’s whether you’re a pop artist or whatever.” – Tee Grizzley

“You don’t need to be like anybody else to become somebody great. You need to be 100% yourself and succeed in your own skin.” – Geoffrey Ocaya

Why Being Real Matters

“I would say I don’t like people who are really into themselves or are very materialistic. Just always talking themselves up. Not being real is the pet peeve. Be true to yourself.” – Austin Stowell

I can’t be someone that I’m not. And people can spot when someone’s being fake, when somebody’s not being real, when somebody’s sugar-coating stuff. People don’t like that. – Chris Arreola

“You have to really prove yourself to young people, and if your answer is clear and consistent and loving – even if it’s angry and disappointed – what’s important is that you’re being real and honest and not going anywhere.” – Vanessa Diffenbaugh

Ready to cut through the noise? Check out our collections of honesty quotes and integrity quotes.