To see someone’s true character, look at just these 2 things

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.

Other Ways to Understand Someone Deeply:

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