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Real Self vs Ideal Self — Insights from Carl Rogers
Each of us holds two different perspectives about who we are.
You have the Ideal Self — the version of yourself that you aspire to become. And then, there’s the Real Self, the person you are right now. Balancing these two is critical for your psychological well-being, according to renowned psychologist Carl Rogers.
What is the Real Self?
The Real Self represents who you are at the moment — your authentic identity, composed of your actual attributes, experiences, and abilities. This includes both your strengths and weaknesses, making it an honest reflection of your current reality.
What is the Ideal Self?
The Ideal Self is a mental construct of who you want to be in the future. It’s shaped by your goals, aspirations, and the influence of societal expectations. This version of you often represents what you perceive as your “perfect” self, the person you believe would bring you the most success, happiness, or fulfillment.
