Ideal Self vs. Real Self

Attribute	Ideal Self	Real Self
Definition	The person you aspire to be, your perfect self	Your actual self, how you see yourself currently
Perception	Positive, optimistic view	Can be positive or negative, realistic view
Goals	Represents your goals and dreams	Reflects your current achievements and shortcomings
Emotions	Feelings of satisfaction and fulfillment	Can include feelings of disappointment or contentment
Self-esteem	Higher self-esteem, confidence	Self-esteem can vary, may be lower than ideal self

Introduction

Understanding the concept of Ideal Self and Real Self is crucial in the field of psychology as it helps individuals gain insight into their self-perception and self-esteem. The Ideal Self represents the person we aspire to be, while the Real Self is a more realistic representation of who we actually are. In this article, we will delve into the attributes of Ideal Self and Real Self, highlighting their differences and similarities.

Attributes of Ideal Self

The Ideal Self is a mental image of the perfect version of ourselves. It encompasses our goals, dreams, and aspirations. This idealized version of ourselves is often influenced by societal norms, cultural expectations, and personal desires. The Ideal Self motivates us to strive for self-improvement and personal growth. It is the embodiment of our hopes and wishes for the future.

• The Ideal Self is often associated with positive traits such as confidence, success, and happiness.
• It serves as a benchmark for measuring our progress and achievements.
• The Ideal Self can evolve over time as our goals and aspirations change.
• Striving to align our Real Self with our Ideal Self can lead to a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.
• However, an unrealistic Ideal Self can also lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.

Attributes of Real Self

The Real Self, on the other hand, is a more accurate representation of who we are in reality. It includes our strengths, weaknesses, values, beliefs, and behaviors. The Real Self is shaped by our experiences, upbringing, and interactions with others. It reflects our true nature and personality, including both positive and negative attributes. Embracing our Real Self is essential for self-acceptance and authenticity.

• The Real Self is a reflection of our thoughts, feelings, and actions in everyday life.
• It provides a realistic view of our abilities, limitations, and characteristics.
• Accepting our Real Self can lead to greater self-awareness and self-compassion.
• Being true to ourselves and honoring our values can enhance our sense of identity and purpose.
• However, denying or suppressing our Real Self can result in inner conflict and emotional distress.

Comparison of Ideal Self and Real Self

While the Ideal Self and Real Self may seem like opposing concepts, they are interconnected and influence each other in various ways. The Ideal Self provides a vision of who we want to become, while the Real Self grounds us in our current reality. Striving to bridge the gap between the two selves can lead to personal growth and self-actualization.

• Both the Ideal Self and Real Self play a role in shaping our self-concept and self-esteem.
• They can impact our behavior, choices, and relationships with others.
• Acknowledging the differences between our Ideal Self and Real Self can help us set realistic goals and expectations.
• Balancing our aspirations with our capabilities can lead to a healthier sense of self-worth and fulfillment.
• Ultimately, integrating aspects of both selves can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ideal Self and Real Self are essential components of our self-concept and identity. While the Ideal Self represents our aspirations and desires, the Real Self reflects our true nature and characteristics. By understanding and embracing both selves, we can cultivate a sense of self-acceptance, authenticity, and personal growth. Striving to align our actions with our values and aspirations can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.