When you’re choosing to commit to a client or employer, your realistic option may actually be a worse fit for you than your dream option. There are all sorts of reasons for this.

For example, if you’re looking for a new client, maybe you have more in common with your dream client—shared references, experiences, values, and heuristics—than your realistic option. 

Maybe your dream client can also see and appreciate what you bring to the table more clearly than a realistic option can.

In situations like this, it would be tragic if you didn’t at least present yourself to your dream option. Settle for “realistic” at your own risk. (Applies to personal relationships as well!)