What is real self and ideal self?
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Amelia Patel
Studied at the University of Oxford, Lives in Oxford, UK.
As a psychologist with extensive experience in the field of personality development and self-concept, I often encounter discussions about the "real self" and the "ideal self." These concepts are pivotal in understanding an individual's perception of themselves and their aspirations. Let's delve into these concepts in detail.
The Real Self
The real self is a term that encapsulates the genuine, authentic aspects of an individual's personality. It is the sum of one's traits, characteristics, behaviors, and beliefs that are not influenced by external factors or societal expectations. This includes the person's inherent qualities, such as their natural talents, emotional responses, and core values. The real self is often associated with the innermost essence of a person, which is not easily altered by external circumstances.
Key components of the real self include:
1. Authenticity: Being true to oneself, not putting on a facade for others.
2. Integrity: Consistently adhering to one's values and principles.
3. Self-awareness: Having a clear understanding of one's own emotions, thoughts, and motivations.
4. Acceptance: Embracing one's strengths and weaknesses without judgment.
The Ideal Self
On the other hand, the ideal self represents the aspirations and goals that an individual sets for themselves. It is the person they envision themselves becoming, which is often influenced by societal standards, personal desires, and the perception of success. The ideal self is a more malleable concept, as it can change over time and is subject to the individual's evolving understanding of themselves and their environment.
Key components of the ideal self include:
1. Ambition: The drive to achieve personal and professional goals.
2. Idealization: The tendency to view oneself in a more favorable light than reality might suggest.
3. Growth: A commitment to self-improvement and personal development.
4. Vision: Having a clear picture of one's desired future self.
**The Relationship Between the Real Self and the Ideal Self**
The interplay between the real self and the ideal self is crucial for psychological well-being. When there is a high degree of congruence between the two, it can lead to a state of peace and contentment. However, a significant discrepancy can result in feelings of dissatisfaction, stress, and even identity crises.
1. Congruence: When the real self aligns closely with the ideal self, it can foster a strong sense of identity and self-esteem.
2. Discrepancy: A large gap between the real and ideal self can lead to internal conflict and a lack of fulfillment.
3. Motivation: The ideal self can serve as a motivational force, driving individuals to work towards self-improvement.
4. Adjustment: Recognizing and adjusting one's ideal self to be more in line with their real self can lead to greater life satisfaction.
The Role of Therapy and Self-Reflection
Therapy can be a powerful tool in helping individuals reconcile the differences between their real self and ideal self. Through self-reflection and introspection, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their authentic selves and work towards setting realistic and achievable goals for their ideal self.
1. Self-Acceptance: Therapy can help individuals accept their real self, including their imperfections.
2. Goal Setting: It can assist in setting goals that are in line with one's true self rather than societal pressures.
3. Coping Strategies: Therapy provides strategies to cope with the gap between the real and ideal self.
4. Personal Growth: It encourages personal growth and development that is authentic and self-directed.
In conclusion, understanding the real self and the ideal self is essential for personal development and psychological health. It is about recognizing one's true nature while also striving for self-improvement in a way that is authentic and meaningful to the individual.
The Real Self
The real self is a term that encapsulates the genuine, authentic aspects of an individual's personality. It is the sum of one's traits, characteristics, behaviors, and beliefs that are not influenced by external factors or societal expectations. This includes the person's inherent qualities, such as their natural talents, emotional responses, and core values. The real self is often associated with the innermost essence of a person, which is not easily altered by external circumstances.
Key components of the real self include:
1. Authenticity: Being true to oneself, not putting on a facade for others.
2. Integrity: Consistently adhering to one's values and principles.
3. Self-awareness: Having a clear understanding of one's own emotions, thoughts, and motivations.
4. Acceptance: Embracing one's strengths and weaknesses without judgment.
The Ideal Self
On the other hand, the ideal self represents the aspirations and goals that an individual sets for themselves. It is the person they envision themselves becoming, which is often influenced by societal standards, personal desires, and the perception of success. The ideal self is a more malleable concept, as it can change over time and is subject to the individual's evolving understanding of themselves and their environment.
Key components of the ideal self include:
1. Ambition: The drive to achieve personal and professional goals.
2. Idealization: The tendency to view oneself in a more favorable light than reality might suggest.
3. Growth: A commitment to self-improvement and personal development.
4. Vision: Having a clear picture of one's desired future self.
**The Relationship Between the Real Self and the Ideal Self**
The interplay between the real self and the ideal self is crucial for psychological well-being. When there is a high degree of congruence between the two, it can lead to a state of peace and contentment. However, a significant discrepancy can result in feelings of dissatisfaction, stress, and even identity crises.
1. Congruence: When the real self aligns closely with the ideal self, it can foster a strong sense of identity and self-esteem.
2. Discrepancy: A large gap between the real and ideal self can lead to internal conflict and a lack of fulfillment.
3. Motivation: The ideal self can serve as a motivational force, driving individuals to work towards self-improvement.
4. Adjustment: Recognizing and adjusting one's ideal self to be more in line with their real self can lead to greater life satisfaction.
The Role of Therapy and Self-Reflection
Therapy can be a powerful tool in helping individuals reconcile the differences between their real self and ideal self. Through self-reflection and introspection, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their authentic selves and work towards setting realistic and achievable goals for their ideal self.
1. Self-Acceptance: Therapy can help individuals accept their real self, including their imperfections.
2. Goal Setting: It can assist in setting goals that are in line with one's true self rather than societal pressures.
3. Coping Strategies: Therapy provides strategies to cope with the gap between the real and ideal self.
4. Personal Growth: It encourages personal growth and development that is authentic and self-directed.
In conclusion, understanding the real self and the ideal self is essential for personal development and psychological health. It is about recognizing one's true nature while also striving for self-improvement in a way that is authentic and meaningful to the individual.
2024-05-12 01:22:23
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Studied at Princeton University, Lives in Princeton, NJ
In psychology, the real self and the ideal self are terms used to describe personality domains. The real self is who I am and the ideal self is who I want to be. The degree to which the two selves are congruent, is equal to the degree of peace of mind.
2023-06-13 10:30:21
Avery Turner
QuesHub.com delivers expert answers and knowledge to you.
In psychology, the real self and the ideal self are terms used to describe personality domains. The real self is who I am and the ideal self is who I want to be. The degree to which the two selves are congruent, is equal to the degree of peace of mind.
