I’m no longer an idealist, not a pessimist or an optimist…. I am a realist.

September 14, 2015 by Healing From Complex Trauma & PTSD/CPTSD 3 Comments

My search and need for truth and rational thinking…. has led me down paths of idealism, pessimism, optimism and eventually to realism.

All the other three, have levels of distorted thinking, I can no longer accept, or tolerate. The other three, are often simply ways of coping, without dealing with reality. Reality is not pleasant in many ways, and people don’t like to accept it… about self, or others.

People often assume realists are pessimists. Usually the eternally optimistic, ever positive types ….. who avoid reality, to keep their lives comfortable.

I see the pitfalls in being positive all the time. It becomes a way to view the world through rose coloured glasses. Minimize suffering. Avoid…. the list of cognitive distortions goes on.

Pessimism, well that is simply more cognitive distortions.

Being a realist, is about having the courage, integrity and clear thinking required to deal with reality. Without the need to self soothe with distorted thinking to self serve and comfort self. Without the irrational belief that everything will be okay as long as I keep being positive. No, not everything will be okay. That’s reality.

I am a realist when it comes to humanity. My life and journey, have led me to this point. Plus my willingness for introspection and my vigilance and discernment.

I also realistically know, this is not common.

This quote made me giggle.