diff --git a/bookwyrm/models/user.py b/bookwyrm/models/user.py
index 170b587e..a65317fa 100644
--- a/bookwyrm/models/user.py
+++ b/bookwyrm/models/user.py
@@ -179,7 +179,7 @@ class User(OrderedCollectionPageMixin, AbstractUser):
             super().save(*args, **kwargs)
 
         # this user already exists, no need to populate fields
-        if created:
+        if not created:
             super().save(*args, **kwargs)
             return