The Gap Between Ideas and Reality

Ideals and reality are two concepts we often confront in our lives. Ideals are our expectations and goals, while reality represents our current circumstances. Sometimes, the gap between our ideals and reality can inspire us to move forward, while at other times it may cause disappointment and frustration. So, should the gap between our ideals and reality be big or small? Let's analyze this from the perspectives of the working class and psychologists.

First, let's consider the point of view of the working class. The term "working class" often describes those who strive for their livelihood at the grassroots level. Their lives are often filled with challenges, and their ideals can be quite lofty. For example, they may hope to own their own home one day or to provide their children with a better education. The gap between these ideals and their current living conditions is often large.

Take Mr. Li as an example. He is a common factory worker in an automobile parts factory in China, doing the same work every day. He is 45 years old, with a wife and two children. They live in the suburbs of the city, and their children attend a local public school. His ideal is to provide his children with a good education and a better life. However, there is a large gap between this ideal and his current living situation. For Mr. Li, this significant gap between his ideals and reality sometimes motivates him to work hard, improve himself, and strive relentlessly to achieve his dreams. However, if the gap is too large, he may feel frustrated and powerless, which can negatively affect his work efficiency and quality of life.

Next, let's look at the psychologists' viewpoint. From a psychological perspective, a large gap between ideals and reality can lead to feelings of defeat and stress, which may have a negative impact on mental health.

According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association involving 5,000 participants, people with a large gap between their ideals and reality scored an average of 10% higher on psychological stress tests than others. These individuals also had higher rates of anxiety and depression, scoring an average of 15% higher on anxiety tests and 20% higher on depression assessments compared to those with a smaller gap between their ideals and reality. Moreover, when it came to tests for coping abilities under stress, they scored 12% lower on average, indicating lesser resilience. The study concluded that the gap between ideals and reality can stimulate motivation, driving people to achieve their goals. However, if this gap is too large, people may feel anxious and uneasy, as they may feel they cannot achieve their goals. These feelings can elevate stress levels and affect mental health.

In conclusion, while the gap between ideals and reality can serve as both a source of motivation and a trigger for stress, the management of this gap significantly impacts its effect. Having a large gap between our dreams and our current state can indeed spur us towards greater efforts. However, if the gap becomes too significant, it may lead to stress, anxiety, and feelings of defeat. Hence, it's important to have a realistic understanding of our current situation and capabilities while striving for our dreams.

In the process of managing the gap between ideals and reality, one should consider individual factors such as personal resilience, available resources, and coping mechanisms. Each person should strive to find a unique balance that allows them to aspire for more without compromising their mental well-being. On the path to achieving our ideals, setbacks and difficulties are inevitable. But as long as we maintain a positive attitude, keep learning, and continue striving, the gap between our ideals and reality can be bridged. Whether your gap is large or small, remember, it is how you manage this gap and your response to it that determines the trajectory of your life.