What does the concept of the ideal self refer to?

The concept of the ideal self refers to how you would like to be, encompassing your aspirations, goals, values, and the person you strive to become. It represents an individual’s vision of their best self, based on personal reflections about strengths and desirable qualities. The ideal self serves as a motivational tool, helping individuals set goals and understand the changes they want to pursue in their lives.

This understanding of the ideal self is central to personal development, as it encourages self-assessment and guides individuals on the path toward achieving their ambitions. In contrast, how others see you focuses on external perceptions, your current capabilities relate to your present skills and attributes, and the way you were raised speaks to your upbringing and formative experiences. While these aspects influence personal growth, they do not capture the essence of the ideal self in the same way.