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Difference Between Ideal and Real

  • Post last modified:March 14, 2023
  • Reading time:10 mins read
  • Post category:Mind
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Contents hide
  1. 1. Explanation of the concept of Ideal and Real
  2. 2. Importance of understanding the difference between Ideal and Real
  3. 3. Definition of Ideal
  4. 4. Definition of Real
  5. 5. Differences between Ideal and Real
  6. 6. Examples of Ideal vs. Real
  7. 7. Coping with the Differences between Ideal and Real
    1. 7.1. Reference website

Explanation of the concept of Ideal and Real

The concepts of Ideal and Real are fundamental to human understanding and perception of the world. In general, Ideal refers to a standard or vision of perfection that is not necessarily attainable in reality, whereas Real refers to the actual state of things, events, or circumstances as they exist in the world.

Ideal is often associated with an abstract, idealized version of something that is considered perfect or flawless. It is a concept that exists in the mind, an ideal state of being or situation that one aspires to achieve. Ideal may be subjective, meaning that what is considered ideal by one person may not be the same as what is considered ideal by another person.

Real, on the other hand, refers to the actual state of things or circumstances as they exist in the world. It is objective, meaning that it exists independently of any individual’s perception or interpretation. The Real may be perceived as imperfect or flawed, but it is what is actually there in the physical or tangible world.

Both Ideal and Real can be applied to different aspects of life, such as personal relationships, professional goals, societal expectations, and personal achievements. Understanding the differences between these two concepts can help individuals cope with the challenges of life, adjust their expectations, and find balance between what they want to achieve and what is realistically possible.

Importance of understanding the difference between Ideal and Real

Understanding the difference between Ideal and Real is important because it can help individuals develop realistic expectations, cope with disappointment, and find a balance between aspiration and acceptance. Here are some specific reasons why it is important to understand the difference between Ideal and Real:

  1. Helps to develop realistic expectations: Understanding the difference between Ideal and Real can help individuals develop realistic expectations about what is possible and achievable in a given situation. It can help them avoid setting unrealistic goals and being disappointed when they cannot achieve them.
  2. Helps to cope with disappointment: Recognizing that the Ideal is not always attainable in reality can help individuals cope with disappointment when things do not go according to plan. It can help them avoid feelings of failure and despair by accepting that the Real may not always live up to their expectations.
  3. Helps to find a balance between aspiration and acceptance: Understanding the difference between Ideal and Real can help individuals find a balance between what they want to achieve and what is realistically possible. It can help them aspire to achieve their goals while also accepting the limitations of the Real world.
  4. Helps to appreciate what is already present: Understanding the difference between Ideal and Real can help individuals appreciate the Real world and what is already present in their lives. It can help them avoid always striving for something more and instead find gratitude in what they already have.

Understanding the difference between Ideal and Real is important for developing realistic expectations, coping with disappointment, finding a balance between aspiration and acceptance, and appreciating what is already present.

Definition of Ideal

Ideal is a concept that refers to a standard or vision of perfection that is not necessarily attainable in reality. It is a state of being or situation that one aspires to achieve, characterized by excellence, flawlessness, and superiority. The Ideal may be subjective, meaning that it is based on individual preferences, values, or beliefs. It is often associated with an abstract, idealized version of something that is considered perfect or flawless. The concept of Ideal can be applied to various aspects of life, such as personal relationships, professional goals, societal expectations, and personal achievements. However, it is important to recognize that the Ideal is not always attainable in reality and that it may be subject to individual interpretation and perspective.

Definition of Real

Real refers to the actual state of things, events, or circumstances as they exist in the world. It is objective, meaning that it exists independently of any individual’s perception or interpretation. The Real may be perceived as imperfect or flawed, but it is what is actually there in the physical or tangible world. The concept of Real can be applied to various aspects of life, such as personal relationships, professional goals, societal expectations, and personal achievements. Understanding the Real is essential for making informed decisions, developing realistic expectations, and coping with challenges and disappointments in life. It is important to recognize that the Real may not always live up to our expectations or ideals, but it is the foundation upon which we build our lives and pursue our goals.

Differences between Ideal and Real

There are several differences between Ideal and Real, including:

  1. Attainability: The Ideal is often an abstract vision of perfection that is not necessarily attainable in reality, while the Real is the actual state of things as they exist in the world.
  2. Subjectivity: The Ideal may be subjective, meaning that it is based on individual preferences, values, or beliefs, while the Real is objective and exists independently of any individual’s perception or interpretation.
  3. Perfection vs. Imperfection: The Ideal is often associated with a perfect or flawless version of something, while the Real may be perceived as imperfect or flawed.
  4. Expectations: The Ideal can create high expectations that may be difficult to meet in reality, while the Real may not always live up to our expectations or ideals.
  5. Flexibility: The Ideal may be less flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances, while the Real may require us to be flexible and adapt to new situations and challenges.
  6. Gratitude: Recognizing the difference between Ideal and Real can help us appreciate the Real world and what is already present in our lives, while always striving for the Ideal can make it difficult to find gratitude in what we already have.

Understanding the differences between Ideal and Real can help individuals develop realistic expectations, cope with disappointment, and find a balance between aspiration and acceptance. It can also help individuals appreciate what is already present in their lives and avoid always striving for something more.

Examples of Ideal vs. Real

Here are some examples of Ideal vs. Real:

  1. Ideal: A perfect romantic partner who meets all of your needs and desires. Real: A partner who has flaws and imperfections but still loves and supports you.
  2. Ideal: A high-paying dream job that fulfills all of your career aspirations. Real: A job that may not be perfect, but provides stability and opportunities for growth.
  3. Ideal: A fit and toned body with no physical limitations. Real: A body that may have limitations or imperfections, but is healthy and functional.
  4. Ideal: Perfect parents who always support and guide you. Real: Parents who love you, but may make mistakes and have their own flaws.
  5. Ideal: A world without conflict, war, or poverty. Real: A world with ongoing challenges and inequalities that require ongoing efforts to address.
  6. Ideal: Always being happy and content in every moment. Real: Experiencing a range of emotions, including sadness and disappointment, but learning to manage them in healthy ways.

These examples illustrate how the Ideal can be an abstract and unattainable vision of perfection, while the Real is the actual state of things as they exist in the world. Recognizing the differences between Ideal and Real can help individuals develop realistic expectations, cope with disappointment, and find a balance between aspiration and acceptance.

Coping with the Differences between Ideal and Real

Coping with the differences between Ideal and Real can be challenging, but there are several strategies that can help individuals manage this tension and find a balance between aspiration and acceptance:

  1. Cultivate gratitude: Focusing on what you have rather than what you lack can help you appreciate the Real world and find happiness in the present moment.
  2. Adjust your expectations: Acknowledge that the Ideal may not always be attainable and adjust your expectations accordingly. This can help you avoid disappointment and find satisfaction in the Real world.
  3. Practice self-compassion: Be kind and understanding towards yourself, recognizing that it is normal to struggle with the differences between Ideal and Real.
  4. Focus on the present: Rather than getting caught up in future aspirations or past regrets, focus on the present moment and what you can do to improve your current situation.
  5. Embrace imperfection: Recognize that imperfection is a natural part of the Real world and that it is okay to have flaws and make mistakes.
  6. Learn from challenges: Rather than being discouraged by challenges and setbacks, use them as an opportunity for growth and learning.
  7. Find balance: Strive for a balance between aspiration and acceptance, recognizing that it is important to have goals and dreams while also appreciating what is already present in your life.

By practicing these coping strategies, individuals can learn to manage the differences between Ideal and Real, find satisfaction in the Real world, and continue to pursue their aspirations in a healthy and sustainable way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the differences between Ideal and Real is essential for living a fulfilling and meaningful life. While the Ideal may represent a vision of perfection, it is often unattainable and subjective. The Real, on the other hand, is the actual state of things as they exist in the world and is objective. By recognizing the differences between Ideal and Real, individuals can develop realistic expectations, cope with disappointment, and find a balance between aspiration and acceptance. Coping strategies such as cultivating gratitude, adjusting expectations, practicing self-compassion, focusing on the present, embracing imperfection, learning from challenges, and finding balance can help individuals manage the tension between Ideal and Real and find satisfaction in the Real world while pursuing their aspirations.

Reference website

Here is a list of some websites that provide more information about the differences between Ideal and Real:

  1. Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/sapient-nature/201709/the-difference-between-the-ideal-and-the-real
  2. Verywell Mind: https://www.verywellmind.com/the-difference-between-ideal-and-real-4164069
  3. Positive Psychology: https://positivepsychology.com/ideal-self-vs-real-self/
  4. Mindful: https://www.mindful.org/the-difference-between-ideal-and-realistic-goals/
  5. Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2019/01/16/why-knowing-the-difference-between-idealistic-and-realistic-is-key-to-success/?sh=6e9414c84d0d

These websites offer a range of perspectives and insights into the differences between Ideal and Real and provide helpful tips for coping with this tension in daily life.