Idealism: Striving For A Better World

Overview

Idealism is a personality trait characterized by a strong belief in ideals, principles, and values. It often involves a preference for social and moral standards. Individuals high in idealism tend to be optimistic about the potential for improvement in the world and are often motivated to work towards positive change. They are driven by a desire to see the world as it should be, rather than solely accepting it as it is.

Idealism is not simply about dreaming; it involves a commitment to action. If you are high in this trait, you likely believe that the world can be improved through deliberate effort and adherence to moral principles. It is closely related to concepts like Altruism, Morality, and a strong sense of Virtue.

Characteristics

If you find yourself identifying with the trait of idealism, you might display some of these characteristics:

Principled Behavior: You tend to act in accordance with your firmly held values and beliefs, even when it's challenging.
Optimistic Outlook: You possess a fundamental belief in the possibility of positive change and a better future.
Social Consciousness: You are often aware of societal issues and injustices, and feel compelled to address them.
Desire for Improvement: You have a strong drive to contribute to positive change and make a difference in the world.
Moral Compass: You maintain a clear understanding of right and wrong, and may be quick to challenge behavior that you perceive as unethical.

In the Workplace

Idealism manifests in the workplace in several ways. Individuals high in idealism often seek to align their work with their values. This could include working for organizations that focus on social good, environmental sustainability, or ethical practices. They may also:

Advocate for Fairness: They are likely to speak up against unfair practices or policies.
Seek Meaningful Work: The job itself should feel meaningful and contribute to a larger purpose.
Collaborate Ethically: They prioritize teamwork and collaboration, always with an eye toward ethical considerations.
Champion Change: They will often be at the forefront of efforts to improve processes and create a better work environment.
Question Authority: These individuals may question authority if they perceive a conflict with their principles. This is not necessarily an act of defiance, but rather, a means of upholding their values.

Relationships

In relationships, idealism shapes how individuals connect with others and navigate their interactions. Individuals high in this trait often:

Seek Deep Connections: They seek out genuine, authentic relationships based on shared values and mutual respect.
Are Empathetic: They are generally empathetic, and often feel the struggles of others.
Value Honesty and Integrity: They place a high value on honesty, and expect the same in return. This may make them more sensitive to perceived dishonesty.
May Struggle with Disappointment: If they find that others don't share their values, it could lead to disappointment. This might be especially true for those with low levels of Tolerance.
Strive for Fairness: They seek fairness and justice in their interactions.

Personal Growth

Cultivating idealism involves balancing your aspirations with practical realities.

Practice Self-Reflection: Regularly examine your values and beliefs, and how they align with your actions. This could increase your sense of Awareness.
Set Realistic Goals: While idealism drives you to strive for great things, set achievable goals. This will help you to avoid feeling overwhelmed or discouraged.
Embrace Imperfection: Understand that perfection is unattainable. Learn to accept setbacks and view them as learning opportunities.
Cultivate Resilience: Develop the ability to bounce back from challenges and disappointments. Those high in Anxiety might find this particularly challenging.
Find Allies: Connect with others who share your values and vision. Find people with Social Closeness. This will provide support and inspiration.