You've probably heard the phrase "soul mate" bandied about from time to time. Usually it describes two people, typically in a romantic relationship, who are somehow "meant for" one another, like the couple at the end of a fairy tale, brought together by destiny.
But down here in the real world, it can be a little trickier to figure out. What is a soul mate? How can you tell who they are? Do you have to be romantically involved with them? Can you have more than one? It's a bit confusing.
Many people take issue with the idea that there's one soul mate for each person. After all, people are complex and need relationships of different kinds with different people, so how could you only have one person to meet all your needs?
This guide to soul mates presents a slightly more complex version of the old idea, but while it might not be as simple, you'll find it actually makes a lot more sense when it comes to the many relationships you have in day-to-day life with friends, family, coworkers, and others.
Check out the types of soul mates below, as well as how they appear in our lives and why, and see who your soul mates are. You might have way more than you think!
Types of Soul Mates Type #1: Soul Friend
A Soul Friend is a best friend.
You connect on your world views, your experiences, and your tastes — but they also serve to broaden your horizons with their own unique selves.
You can talk about anything together, exchange secrets, and trust one another to be there through thick and thin.
Feel like you have more than one person like this in your life? You probably do! There's no limit to the amount of soul friends a person can have in their lives.
Type #2: Soul Teacher
The Soul Teacher is someone who imparts on you an important lesson that changes your life in some way.
It can be anyone — a friend, family member, romantic partner, or even someone you don’t like at all!
Whether you knew this person for a long time, or just fleetingly, their lessons stay with you for a lifetime.
And it shows that no matter your relation to someone, they may have the capacity to teach you something, even inadvertently.
Type #3: Soul Companion
This is usually what people mean when they say a “soul mate.” It’s someone with whom you share a deep personal connection and a romantic attraction.
You’ll usually feel a deep understanding of one another, and are willing to go on a journey of living and growing together.
You are not only partners, but you're best friends, and you can always brighten each other's day. Your differences complement one another perfectly.
Type #4: Soul Twin
Unlike a Soul Companion, whose differences and opposite opinions complement you, a Soul Twin is almost exactly like you!
This is someone who, on meeting them, gives you a feeling like you’ve found a missing piece to yourself, or the feeling of “coming home.”
Soul Twins usually share similar life goals, lifestyles, and interests. They're like looking into a mirror!
Facts About Soul Mates Fact #1: Soul Mates Appear When We Need Them
Soul Mates come into our lives because we need them to.
Maybe we simply need company. Maybe we need to learn what kind of company is best for us. And maybe we need company to last a lifetime.
Their roles can also change as we grow and get to know one another better.
Fact #2: Soul Mates May Not Stay With Us Forever
Sometimes, a person comes into your life who is greatly meaningful, but doesn't stick around forever. And that’s OK.
They usually appear when a change is needed… but once the change, growth, or lesson is completed, the relationship tends to fade.
Fact #3: Soul Mates Can Be For A Lifetime
Lifetime Soul Mates are the friends and loved ones who stay with you through it all, and don’t plan on letting go.
There’s an easy harmony with these people, and you might even go for a time without being in touch only to meet again and pick up where you left off.
Do you have a special soul mate in your life — or perhaps more than one? Let us know in the comments below!
Please SHARE this fascinating information with the soul mates in your life!