Exploring SoulMate Love & The Connection Between People

Medically reviewed by Paige Henry, LMSW, J.D. and Dr. April Brewer, DBH, LPC
Updated October 9, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team

The concept of soulmate love has likely been around for centuries. Historically, soulmate love was typically thought to be the idea of having one true love, a person meant to complete and fulfill you. However, as society and culture have evolved, the concept of soulmate love has generally changed. While the idea of looking for a soulmate may give you a sense of purpose as you date, it can also put undue pressure on individuals and relationships. If you’re looking to meet someone with whom you can enjoy soulmate love, you might focus on widening your network, enhancing your self-love and self-knowledge, improving your emotional intelligence and empathy, and embracing communication and boundaries. Online therapy with a licensed mental health professional can be another way to address any challenges you may be experiencing regarding finding love.

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Embrace soulmate love by cultivating healthy relationships

Traditional beliefs about soulmates and soulmate love

The original concepts of soul bonds and soulmates likely date back centuries. In today's world, soulmate love tends to be an idealized concept that many desire to experience. Modern soulmate love may be viewed as a profound connection between two people that transcends time, space, and physicality. This strong connection may offer untold amounts of love and support, even when one soulmate may be physically apart from the other.

The idea of one true love, or soulmate love

Whether fueled by romantic songs and stories or your own life experiences, the concept of having “one true love” may leave people wondering how and why such a phenomenon happens, if it does at all. This belief purports that there may only be one person in the world who is meant to be our soulmate, and that finding this person could lead to a lifetime of happiness and fulfillment. Soulmate love embodies this notion, emphasizing the unique and deep connection one might experience with that special person.

The idea of destiny, or fate connection

Along with the belief in true love, the idea of destiny or fate is often associated with finding your soulmate. The belief that two souls recognize each other when they meet and that their meeting might be predetermined by fate can be a common idea.

The idea of completeness, or wholeness in a soulmate relationship

The belief that finding your soulmate might make you feel complete or whole can be another traditional concept associated with soulmate love. According to this belief, you might feel a sense of incompleteness or lack of fulfillment without a soulmate.

The idea of soul recognition in soulmate romance

The belief that two souls recognize each other when they meet may be another traditional idea associated with soulmate love. It suggests that there might be a deep understanding and connection between two people, even if they have just met, because they are soulmates.

These traditional beliefs about soulmate love often create high expectations and put pressure on finding and maintaining a romantic relationship. These beliefs may also lead to disappointment when the expectations that come with them are not met. 

Modern views on soulmate love

Today, perspectives on the concept of soulmate love tend to look different than they did in the past.

The idea of many potential partners: As society and culture evolve, the idea that there can be only one true love for each person is often challenged. Modern views on soulmate love suggest that many potential partners might be suitable for us, and that the idea of one true love may be limiting.

The idea of personal growth and soulmate compatibility

Modern views on soulmate love frequently suggest that personal growth and compatibility can play more of a role in love than destiny or fate. The general belief may be that soulmate love should be based on the idea that two people might grow together and remain compatible in their values, goals, and life vision.

The idea of choice and partner agency

Modern views on soulmate love also tend to emphasize choice and agency. This can mean that individuals have the power to make choices and take action to find and cultivate soulmate love, rather than waiting for fate to bring them together.

How social and cultural factors shape views on the bond between soulmates

Social and cultural factors may also shape modern views on soulmate love. For example, the rise of dating apps and online dating has made connecting with many potential partners easier for many. This shift in how people meet, and form relationships has influenced how we perceive and experience soulmate bonds, often making them feel less mystical and more a matter of choice and compatibility.

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The pros and cons of soulmate love

While it might be exciting to find that one person and pursue a life-long relationship with them, there can be pros and cons associated with soulmate love.

The belief in soulmate love may bring emotional fulfillment and connection. The idea that someone out there may be the perfect match for us can provide a sense of hope and purpose in our romantic lives. 

The belief in soulmate love may also have potential drawbacks.

The idea of "one true love" can create unrealistic expectations and put pressure on finding and maintaining a romantic relationship. The belief that your soulmate may complete or fulfill you can create a sense of incompleteness or lack of fulfillment without a soulmate. When these expectations are not met, disappointment and even symptoms of depression may occur.

How to find and cultivate soulmate love

Finding a soulmate may not be easy, but with some patience and effort, it may be possible to find the right person for you. Here are a few tips:

Expand your social network to find a lover

Expanding your circle of friends and acquaintances can be beneficial in finding love. You might join activities or groups related to your interests and try meeting new people. These contacts may lead you to potential partners or help build an atmosphere conducive to finding a meaningful relationship.

Enhance your self-knowledge, love, and affection

Finding and cultivating soulmate love is likely to start with self-knowledge and self-love. Self-love may allow individuals to have healthy and realistic expectations and boundaries in a relationship. Understanding your values, goals, and needs can be essential in finding a compatible partner.

Encourage communication and set clear boundaries

Clear and open communication can give us the ability to enjoy deeper understanding and connection with a partner. Being able to set clear, healthy boundaries can help you maintain a healthy and respectful relationship.

Foster emotional intelligence, empathy, and passion

These qualities can allow for better understanding and connection with a partner. Additionally, they often help in navigating and resolving conflicts in a relationship.

Work with a therapist

Therapy may also play a role in understanding and cultivating soulmate love. A therapist can help individuals understand their beliefs and expectations about soulmate love and how these beliefs may impact their relationships.

Online therapy for soulmate love

It can be difficult to find and cultivate soulmate love in today's society, especially when attempting to understand your beliefs and expectations and how they may impact your relationships. If you’re having trouble with romantic relationships, seeking online therapy can be highly beneficial. Therapy can provide strategies for effective communication, setting boundaries, and building trust in yourself and others. Plus, attending therapy online often adds convenience to the process of working with a licensed mental health professional.

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Embrace soulmate love by cultivating healthy relationships

The research behind online therapy

Research has shown that therapy can effectively address some spiritual needs, including those related to soulmate love. A study published in the Journal of Religion and Health found that therapy can be effective in improving spiritual well-being, self-esteem, and self-efficacy. These findings may show the importance of considering therapy in understanding and cultivating soulmate love. Additionally, research suggests that online therapy can be as effective as traditional face-to-face therapy in addressing a wide variety of mental health needs.

Takeaway

Online therapy may be an effective way to address needs related to soulmate love. It can help individuals understand their beliefs and expectations about soulmate love and how they may impact their relationships. Other methods of finding a healthy, fulfilling relationship can include widening your social network, doing self-work, and improving skills related to communication and setting boundaries.
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