But a broader and more sympathetic interpretation is that a personal norm is accepted by the person as establishing what ought to be done from a pledge or assignment of personal responsibility. Supererogatory acts done from moral ideals typically would be required were it not for an abnormal deprivation or risk present in the particular circumstances, but the individual elects not to invoke an exemption from acting based on the abnormal situation. The individual therefore does not make a mistake in regarding the action as personally required and can view failure as grounds for guilt, even though no one else is free to view the act as obligatory. Not all ideals are exceptionally arduous, costly, or risky. Examples of less demanding ideals include generous gift-giving, volunteering for public service, forgiving another's costly error, devoted and extended kindness, and complying with requests made by other persons when these exceed the requirements of the common morality.
Many everyday actions exceed obligation without being at the highest level of ideals.
Aristotelians have held that the ideal of an admirable life of moral achievement is central to the very nature of ethics, not merely a second level beyond ordinary morality. Each individual should aspire to a level as elevated as his or her abilities permit. Some persons are more able than others, and for this reason they merit more praise, acknowledgement, and admiration. The Aristotelian model does not expect perfection, but rather that one strives toward perfection. Ideals are thus central in this model, not merely ornaments to an already commendable life.