Determining if Someone is an Idealist or a Realist

Determining if Someone is an Idealist or a Realist: Questions and Answers

1. Dreams vs. Plans

Do you often find yourself daydreaming about an ideal future, or do you focus more on practical plans and achievable goals?

• Idealist Answer: “I often find myself dreaming about a future where I’m doing something I love, even if it seems far-fetched. I believe in following my passions, no matter how impractical they might seem.”
• Realist Answer: “I tend to focus more on setting achievable goals and making practical plans. I think it’s important to be realistic about what’s possible and work steadily towards it.”

2. Change the World

If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be? And how realistic do you think it is to achieve this change?

• Idealist Answer: “I would end all wars and establish world peace. I know it’s a big dream, but I think it’s important to aim high and believe in the best.”
• Realist Answer: “I would focus on something more achievable, like improving education systems. It’s not about changing everything overnight, but making gradual, tangible improvements.”

3. Perfect Day Scenario

Describe your perfect day. Would it be something fantastical and dream-like, or more down-to-earth and realistic?

• Idealist Answer: “My perfect day would be something out of a storybook – maybe walking through a magical forest or finding a hidden city. It’s more about the fantasy and wonder.”
• Realist Answer: “A perfect day for me would be having a productive day at work, followed by a nice dinner with friends. It’s simple and achievable, which makes it perfect.”

4. Life Challenges

When you face a difficult situation, do you tend to think about the best possible outcome, or do you focus more on managing expectations and preparing for practical outcomes?

• Idealist Answer: “I always imagine the best possible outcome and stay hopeful, even if it seems unlikely. It’s important to keep your spirits up and believe in the best.”
• Realist Answer: “I try to be pragmatic and prepare for various outcomes. It’s more about managing expectations and dealing with the situation in a practical way.”

5. Career Ambitions

Who inspires you the most? Someone who achieved something extraordinary against all odds, or someone who made a significant impact through practical and realistic means?

• Idealist Answer: “My dream job is to be a bestselling author, even if it’s hard to achieve. I want to follow my passion for writing, no matter the odds.”
• Realist Answer: “I’m aiming for a career that’s stable and secure, like being an accountant. It may not be my absolute passion, but it’s realistic and provides a good living.”

6. Inspirational Figures

In a relationship, do you look for a fairy-tale romance or a partnership grounded in reality and mutual understanding?

• Idealist Answer: “Someone who achieved something extraordinary against all odds inspires me the most. It shows that anything is possible if you believe.”
• Realist Answer: “I’m inspired by people who made significant impacts through practical and realistic means. It’s about what’s achievable and making a real difference.”

7. Relationship Expectations

What’s your dream job? Is it something idealistic that aligns with your passions, or something more realistic that offers stability and security?

• Idealist Answer: “I look for a fairy-tale romance, believing that perfect love exists and it’s just a matter of finding it.”
• Realist Answer: “I prefer a partnership grounded in reality and mutual understanding, where both parties work together to build a strong relationship.”

8. Life Philosophy

Would you say you’re more of an optimist who sees the glass as half full, or a realist who sees the glass as it is?

• Idealist Answer: “I’m an optimist who sees the glass as half full. I always look for the silver lining in every situation.”
• Realist Answer: “I’m a realist who sees the glass as it is. It’s important to be aware of both the positives and negatives in any situation.”

9. Future Vision

How do you envision your life in 10 years? Are your visions more idealistic and aspirational, or are they grounded in realistic expectations?

• Idealist Answer: “I envision my life in 10 years as something filled with success and happiness, achieving all my dreams, no matter how ambitious.”
• Realist Answer: “I see my life in 10 years grounded in realistic expectations, with a stable job, a happy family, and a comfortable lifestyle.”

10. Problem-Solving Approach

When faced with a problem, do you tend to think outside the box and imagine creative, idealistic solutions, or do you rely more on logical, tried-and-true methods?

• Idealist Answer: “When faced with a problem, I think outside the box and imagine creative, idealistic solutions. There’s always a way to turn things around.”
• Realist Answer: “I rely more on logical, tried-and-true methods. It’s about finding the most effective and practical solution to the problem.”