Realistic vs. Attainable — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on March 14, 2024
Realistic goals are grounded in current realities, whereas attainable goals are within one's reach given time and resources.
Difference Between Realistic and Attainable
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Realistic goals are based on what is practical and achievable considering current circumstances and limitations. They require an honest assessment of what is possible at a given time. On the other hand, attainable goals might stretch beyond current capabilities but are still achievable through effort, skill development, and resource acquisition over time.
Setting realistic goals involves understanding the present situation, resources available, and any constraints. These goals are often set with a clear awareness of what can be achieved in the short term. Whereas, attainable goals are set with a future perspective in mind, focusing on what can be achieved eventually with the right strategies, regardless of present constraints.
Realistic goals encourage immediate action and adjustments based on current conditions, aiming for success without overreaching. Attainable goals, while they may require more time and effort, inspire growth and long-term planning, pushing individuals or organizations to expand their capabilities.
The distinction between realistic and attainable goals often lies in their time frame and the extent of challenge they present. Realistic goals are typically more conservative and short-term, making sure the goals fit within existing parameters. Attainable goals might set the bar higher, promoting stretching beyond comfort zones to achieve more ambitious outcomes.
Comparison Chart
Basis
Current reality and practicality
Future potential with effort
ADVERTISEMENT
Time Frame
Short-term
Longer-term
Requirements
Understanding of current situation and limitations
Planning, skill development, resource acquisition
Aim
Achieve success within known constraints
Push beyond current capabilities
Motivation
Immediate action based on current conditions
Growth and expansion over time
Compare with Definitions
Realistic
Involve an honest assessment of limitations and opportunities.
Hiring two new team members is realistic considering our current finances.
Attainable
Require planning, skill development, and possibly acquiring new resources.
Becoming fluent in a new language is attainable with dedicated study and immersion.
Realistic
Focus on short-term achievements that are attainable with existing resources.
Completing the project within the budget is a realistic goal.
Attainable
Are set with a long-term perspective and ambition in mind.
Running a marathon is attainable with consistent training and discipline.
Realistic
Encourage adjustments and flexibility based on real-time feedback.
Adjusting our sales targets to be more realistic in response to economic changes.
Attainable
Encourage setting higher aspirations that motivate beyond the immediate context.
Attaining a leadership position is possible with continued professional development and networking.
Realistic
Goals that are practical and achievable based on current circumstances.
Expanding the business by 10% this year is realistic given the market trends.
Attainable
Goals that are achievable with effort, even if they seem challenging at first.
Doubling the company’s revenue in five years is attainable with strategic expansion.
Realistic
Ensure goals are grounded in the present reality.
It's realistic to aim for a 5% increase in efficiency with current technology.
Attainable
Inspire growth and pushing beyond current limitations.
Writing a novel is attainable by dedicating time daily to write and revise.
Realistic
Having or showing a sensible and practical idea of what can be achieved or expected
I thought we had a realistic chance of winning
Attainable
To gain as an objective; achieve
Attain a diploma by hard work.
Realistic
Representing things in a way that is accurate and true to life
A realistic human drama
Attainable
To come to or arrive at, as through movement, growth, or the passage of time
Redwoods can attain a height of 300 feet.
Realistic
Tending to or expressing an awareness of things as they really are
She gave us a realistic appraisal of our chances.
Attainable
To succeed in a directed effort, process, or progression
Attained to high office.
Eventually attained to wisdom.
Realistic
Of or relating to the representation of objects, actions, or social conditions as they actually are
A realistic novel about coal mining.
Attainable
Able to be accomplished, achieved, or obtained.
Realistic
Expressed or represented as being accurate, practicable, or not idealistic.
A realistic appraisal of the situation.
Attainable
Something that can be attained.
Realistic
Relating to the representation of objects, actions or conditions as they actually are or were.
A realistic novel about the Victorian poor.
Attainable
Capable of being attained or reached by efforts of the mind or body; capable of being compassed or accomplished by efforts directed to the object.
The highest pitch of perfection attainable in this life.
Realistic
Of or pertaining to the realists; in the manner of the realists; characterized by realism rather than by imagination.
Attainable
Obtainable.
General Howe would not permit the purchase of those articles [clothes and blankets] in Philadelphia, and they were not attainable in the country.
Realistic
Aware or expressing awareness of things as they really are;
A realistic description
A realistic view of the possibilities
A realistic appraisal of our chances
The actors tried to create a realistic portrayal of the Africans
Attainable
Capable of being attained or accomplished;
Choose an attainable goal
Art is not something that is come-at-able by dint of study
Realistic
Representing what is real; not abstract or ideal;
Realistic portraiture
A realistic novel
In naturalistic colors
The school of naturalistic writers
Realistic
Of or relating to the philosophical doctrine of realism;
A realistic system of thought
Common Curiosities
Why is it important to set realistic goals?
Setting realistic goals helps ensure success and motivation by aligning ambitions with what's practically achievable.
How do you determine if a goal is attainable?
A goal is attainable if it can be achieved through planning, effort, and possibly expanding capabilities, even if it's not immediately achievable.
Can a goal be both realistic and attainable?
Yes, goals can be both realistic and attainable, especially if they are set with a clear understanding of current conditions and a plan for growth.
What does it mean for a goal to be realistic?
A realistic goal is one that considers current resources, limitations, and circumstances, aiming for success within those parameters.
What makes attainable goals different from mere dreams?
Attainable goals are backed by actionable plans, resources, and a willingness to work towards them, unlike dreams which may not have a clear path to achievement.
How can one make an ambitious goal attainable?
By breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps, acquiring necessary skills, and systematically working towards the larger goal.
Is it better to set realistic or attainable goals?
It depends on the context and long-term ambitions. A balance of both can drive immediate success and long-term growth.
How can attainable goals inspire personal development?
They encourage learning new skills, expanding capabilities, and stepping out of comfort zones, leading to personal growth.
Do realistic goals limit growth?
Not necessarily; they ensure progress by matching ambitions with current realities, which can be a foundation for further growth.
Can changing circumstances affect whether a goal is realistic or attainable?
Yes, changes in resources, knowledge, or external conditions can impact the realism and attainability of goals, requiring adjustments.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Clay vs. Terracotta
Next Comparison
Award vs. TitleAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
