Good question Carrie
Realism is the safe haven of the pessimist, begin thinking unrealistically and you'll find reality starts to get a lot less "realistic" in and of itself. I have noticed this in my own life, I used to be a pessimist.
I can relate to this. The lines between these concepts are pretty vague. I think that one's perception of reality has a lot to do with one's motivation, attitude and locus of control.
Pessimists tend to motivated more by safety and security- The glass is half empty
Cynics tend to have more of an external locus of control- The glass is always half empty because thats the way it is
Optimists tend to be motivated by growth- The glass is half full
Realism is motivated by the desire for truth. Realism is trying to be objective, pretty damn difficult, as everone is inherently biased and subject to process information through their schemas.
Take the glass half full/empty question. Both answers are correct because the glass is simultaneously half full and empty. Its just a matter of perspective. We see things as we are, not as they are.
I think all the isms can be incorporated and function together as well
For example- I normally use this 3 step approach when dealing with uncertain scenarios:
1) Consider all variables and all potential problems. Find the most probable outcome and the worst case outcome
2) Find a workable solution to potential problems and worst case scenario
3) Hope, pray and do your best
Our attitude has a lot to do with how we experience and shape our reality. Self fulfilling prophesies and the placebo effect are pretty well documented.
I've always found the placebo effect so fascinating. To think that you can give someone a sugar pill for a 'real disorder' that will cause a 'real improvement' simply by the power of their belief is amazing. These people are truly awesome!
Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Jesus, Matthew 17:20