A friend was talking to me yesterday about being an idealist. I took offense for a moment and then I decided to look up the word. An idealist is someone who cherishes or pursues high or noble principles, purposes, goals – someone who believes that anything is possible.
I think he could be right – I am an idealist. I write a lot about personal choice, love, happiness — that anything is possible if we want it. But the truth is that sometimes I forget that there will be times when life is difficult and we just can’t be happy all the time. So, how do we stay idealistic during those times?
I think we are all born idealists. We are always supposed to understand our full potential and that we can do anything we want if we are focused and push ourselves.
My idealism is a source of my motivation and direction. It keeps me from becoming cynical or losing confidence. It keeps me believing in the good of others, even when the good is not there.
But, I gotta tell you, being an idealist is not always easy. Sometimes, it’s difficult to keep my head up and believe that some things are possible when everything around me is telling me the exact opposite. And doubts can creep in too and make me question the meaning behind it all. Sometimes, even the idealist (me) can be completely overwhelmed by life.
But, we never want to lose touch with the part of us that believes in the possibilities and is inspired and motivated by the fact that so many exist. It really is a tough world, filled with bumps, bruises and defeats. And, sometimes we let that challenge our idealism. However, we must always try to keep that underlying sense of the notion that good is the natural order of life and even when we don’t see it … it’s there in us and in others. And no matter the trials or tribulations … we will see our way through it.
So today, realize the importance of your idealism. Or, if you’ve lost it (and still are without power – like me!), access it and do everything you can to strengthen it. When I’m struggling with my idealism, I try to do things for others – which helps reaffirm my feeling of the good in the world.
Remember, there will always be people and things trying to chip away at your idealism. But it’s yours and you will take it with you when you leave — so treasure and care for that part of you that sees the endless possibilities in the world.
Have a wonderful day!
theyearof50 