We tend to think of soulmates only in relation to love and romance, yet, some of the most impactful relationships in our lives are the ones we share with very specific friends. In reality, there is more to a soulmate than just a romantic coupling, and the absence of that romantic element is the core difference between a soulmate and a platonic soulmate. A platonic soulmate relationship is built on the premise that there is no romantic attraction and/or intimacy being sought from the other. This also means that your platonic soul mate could be someone of the same or opposite gender. So, how do you know if you have a platonic soulmate in your life?
First Things First— What Is a Soulmate?
Simply put, soulmates are people whose souls are profoundly connected. There’s usually a sense of familiarity between both people, as if they have known each other for many lifetimes and do not need to explain nor hide quirks from one another. The term soulmate has found immense popularity within the dating realm and is often regarded as the North Star when searching for a potential other half. However, while the narrative surrounding a soulmate normally plays out in the context of marriage or long-lasting romantic relationships, that doesn’t always have to be the case.
What Is a Platonic Soulmate?
Take all of the elements described in a soulmate connection, apply them to someone you have no sexual attraction towards, and you have what is known as a platonic soulmate. This is a person you feel a deep and intimate connection with; they’re more than just a good friend, but there’s no desire to further things into a romantic or sexual relationship. These platonic soulmates can be found in friends, extended family, or co-workers, and their significance in life holds just as much weight as a romantic soulmate would.
4 Signs You Have Found a Platonic Soulmate?
If you think you may have encountered one of these rare kindred spirits or “platonic soulmates,” there are certain signs to look for. Platonic soulmates share a connection that goes far beyond casual friendship or even best friend status. While no romance or physical attraction exists, the bond and understanding are exceptionally close. When someone seems to check all the boxes as your personality mirror, trusted confidant, unconditional supporter, and loving kindred spirit, they just may qualify as a platonic soulmate. There’s no exactly prescribed checklist, but watching for these signs can help determine if you’ve been so lucky to find this special once-in-a-lifetime relationship.
There Is an Instant Connection
When you meet this person there is an instant familiarity at a deep, core level. The connection is based on more than just similar interests or an overlap in hobbies.
Their Presence Is Uplifting
Do you ever hang out with someone and leave feeling completely drained of energy? Sadly, this happens all too often. With a platonic soulmate, it feels like much of the opposite. This relationship tends to nurture one another, support each other and not look to simply gain from the other individual. In this way, the platonic soulmate relationship is supportive and energizing.
Time Flies When You’re Together
Whether you’re just chatting on the couch or out exploring the world, hours feel like minutes when you’re together. There’s never enough time to get through all of your thoughts and giggles, and even enjoying each other’s silence can feel like medicine. If you’re long-distance soulmates, seeing each other after a long time apart can still feel like you just saw each other yesterday.
You Feel Safe To Be Yourself
There’s no element of performance with one another. Like kindred spirits, the two of you just “get” each other, and there’s no need to mask your weirdness. Whether you’re being emotionally vulnerable or going on about your niche passions, they provide a safe space for all of your layers.
Spoil Your Platonic Soulmates, Too
In a society that begs to exploit modern romance at the hands of heart-shaped candies and chocolates, take some time to nurture the platonic soulmates in your life that play just as much of a role in maintaining your sanity.