How do you stay authentic in dating without becoming a people-pleaser or manipulator?

Every day, I see people giving advice on how to act in order to “attract women” — things like:

• Don’t show too much interest in the first few texts
• Delay your replies so you don’t seem needy
• Don’t ask about her too much or you’ll come off as having no life
• Avoid being “too nice” or you’ll give off “nice guy” vibes
• Always appear busy or hard to get
• Don’t express your true feelings early on

Basically, the advice boils down to: be less available, act detached, and control how much you show you care — all to maintain a power dynamic or increase attraction.

But I actually disagree with a lot of this. I think being your authentic self is more valuable in the long run. However, I also understand that some people go too far and end up becoming overly available or invested too quickly — which can also backfire.

I want to strike a balance:
How do you stay real and emotionally open while also maintaining healthy boundaries and not becoming a “simp” or a manipulative player?

What mindsets or “rules” do you follow to be genuinely interested without losing your self-respect or identity in the process?

Would love to hear thoughtful perspectives on this.