Do We Have More Than One Soul Mate in the World?

What do you think about soul mates? Do you believe in a soul mate? We live in a world where the idea of a soul mate is romanticized everywhere - in books and magazines, on radio and TV, and in the movies.

If you believe there is one single person in the world for you, then take note. Your chances of finding that one exact person you were destined to be with is slim - approximately a one in 6 billion chance. You will be searching for an awful long time. Look at it this way - isn't it possible that a man or a woman can have a number of soul mates in his or her lifetime?

What is a soul mate?
How would you define a soul mate? Most of us will define soul mate as a life partner we're in love with; someone with whom we're connected spiritually and sexually. The dictionary definition of soul mate is "One of two persons compatible with each other in disposition, point of view, or sensitivity" and "someone for whom you have a deep affinity." (Source: Dictionary.com) To look at this definition in a broader perspective opens up the possibility of applying the notion of a soul mate to a variety of people in your life.

We all share common interests with many people; for example, liking the same music and hobbies, having similar jobs, or even having the same sense of humor. A soul mate encompasses these attributes, and much more. A soul mate represents a deeper, more spiritual connection.

Many of us singletons feel we are not complete without our soul mates; and therefore, sometimes spend a lifetime in search of our soul mates.

There's not just one soul mate ... but many in the world

If we are able to separate the concept of a soul mate from the romantic ideal, the field opens up exponentially. In fact, there could actually be thousands of soul mates out there for you. That childhood friend, whom you've always described as your sister; the colleague who answers questions almost before you ask them; your best buddy, the one you trust, the one with whom you can talk about anything in complete confidence; these could all be considered soul mates.

Throughout our lives and as we mature, our spiritual and emotional needs change. We all probably know of that older woman who remarried after her husband died, claiming she had found her second soul mate. That is evidence that more than one specific person exists for all of us.

If you look back on your past, there are probably certain people who made an enormous impact and made you feel complete. Maybe it was a teacher who saw potential and encouraged you. Maybe it was a friend or grandparent with whom you shared secrets about the meaning of life. Maybe it was an old girlfriend, with whom you grew apart as your goals changed. Soul mates make a dramatic impact on your life, even if sometimes the time you share together is brief.

What is the role of destiny? Do you believe in destiny?

Does destiny play a role in finding soul mates? Some people believe that everything in life happens for a reason, that things are pre-ordained and that there is no such thing as coincidence. Others believe that we are all reincarnated and that our strongest spiritual connections are with people we've known in previous lives.

Whether or not you believe soul mates exist, being open to new experiences and being comfortable with yourself are paramount to finding someone who makes you feel complete.

What should you look for?

Look for someone who best suits your needs, who has similar interests and goals in life. If you are both equally willing to invest in the relationship, you may be able to build a future together.

Most couples who consider themselves soul mates pride themselves on being friends, first and foremost. They can laugh together and talk with each other about everything and anything. If you motivate each other, make each other happy and trust each other, you have something special. Being comfortable together in silence is important. Honesty, mutual respect and laughter are also signs of a spiritual connection. All those attributes apply equally to a meaningful friendship.

Get out there with an open mind
Is there one perfect partner out there for you and will you ever find him or her? That may be up to you. The odds for your exact soul mate are low, but look for someone who seems like the best fit for you. While no one is perfect, look for the person who is perfect for you.

It is important to be open to meeting new people and don't base your search on trying to find the perfect poster pinup Sports Illustrated swimsuit model who in her skimpy bikini puts on an apron and cooks the perfect meal. For your own spiritual contentment, the bikini model will probably always look great, but will you have that deep, inner connection. Of course, find someone who you find attractive, but with whom you also have a special bond and connection. If you can't talk with her and connect on a deeper level, then what happens when looks fade after years of marriage? What will be left? Keep that in mind.

Many of us struggle to find even one person who makes them feel complete. So, consider yourself lucky if you find several people throughout your life that make you feel complete and, if one day you realize that you have actually found your soul mate, then consider yourself the luckiest man or woman alive.