The ease of being yourself around certain people and not others can be influenced by a combination of individual and situational factors. Here are some reasons why you might experience this phenomenon:
Shared Interests and Values: When you are around people who share similar interests and values, you are more likely to feel comfortable being yourself because you know there's a level of understanding and acceptance for who you are.
Acceptance and Support: If you have experienced acceptance and support from certain individuals in the past, you may feel more at ease around them because you know they are non-judgmental and will embrace you for who you are.
Social Anxiety or Fear of Rejection: Some people struggle with social anxiety or fear of rejection, making it harder for them to be themselves around new or unfamiliar individuals. If you've had negative experiences in the past, it might affect your comfort level around certain people.
Power Dynamics: In some situations, there might be power imbalances that affect your behavior. For example, you may feel less comfortable being yourself around authority figures or those you perceive as more dominant.
Personality and Temperament: Personalities can vary significantly, and sometimes you may naturally connect better with certain individuals whose personalities complement your own, leading to a greater sense of ease.
Past Experiences: Negative past experiences with certain people or groups can create a subconscious barrier, causing you to be guarded or less authentic around them.
Feeling the Need to Impress: Sometimes, when we meet new people or those we admire, we may feel the need to present ourselves in a more favorable light, which can lead to a feeling of not being entirely authentic.
Cultural or Social Norms: Cultural or social norms may influence how you behave and interact with different people. You might feel more comfortable being yourself around those who share a similar cultural background or understanding of social norms.
Level of Emotional Intimacy: Being authentic and vulnerable requires a level of emotional intimacy. If you don't feel emotionally connected to someone, it can be difficult to open up and be yourself.
Fear of Judgment: Some people might fear being judged or criticized by certain individuals, leading them to be more guarded and less authentic.
It's important to recognize that being yourself is a process that varies from person to person and situation to situation. As you develop self-awareness and work on building confidence and self-acceptance, you may find it easier to be authentic and comfortable around a wider range of people. It can also be helpful to surround yourself with supportive and accepting individuals who encourage you to be your true self.