So, you’ve started dating. And, you’ve found a person you really like. But, you’re wondering whether or not you’re actually compatible, or if you’re just placating each other because you’re still in that “new” phase of the relationship where you’re doing all the things you think they’ll like just to make them happy. If you’re on the fence about whether or not the person you’ve been seeing deserves you taking the time to start looking at ring size charts, here are some of the most common signs to look out for regarding partner compatibility.
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Compatibility by Philosophy
Did you know that compatibility is determined differently based on your location, culture and even philosophical beliefs? Here are some of the commonly used ways that compatibility is measured around the world:
- Astrology charts: Ever heard the phrase ‘it’s written in the stars?’ If so, you wouldn’t be alone. Many people put a lot of thought and credibility into your star chart to help determine compatibility with a romantic partner. There are different facets to your star chart. Most people know their Sun Sign, which is the position of the Sun at your birth. However, the parts of your star chart that determine love, romance and even sexual pleasure aren’t about your Sun Sign. Because your Sun Sign doesn’t explain everything, many couples will need to look at their star charts holistically in order to determine whether or not they’re compatible.
- Face reading. Typically used in Indian culture, face reading takes the different parts of your facial structure to determine your struggles, successes and life expectations. When it comes to couple compatibility, face readers compare the facial structures of the partners to determine what they’ll do well together as a couple, and the things they’ll struggle with together. Popularized in China, this measure of compatibility is common in Eastern cultures that still use divination as a large part of their everyday life. In Eastern cultures, individuals who can read faces and star charts and do other types of divination are hailed as experts in the community and revered by locals.
- Religion. Many couples around the world use religion to measure compatibility. This is especially for countries and communities where religion is a large part of everyday life. Whether or not two people feel the same way about religion can be a huge factor in their compatibility. If you and your partner don’t see eye to eye on religion, then there might be some major arguments and concerns as you explore your relationship together.
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Signs You and Your Partner Are Compatible
Here are some common ways to tell you and your partner are compatible:
- You like similar types of comedy. If you and your partner can share a laugh together, then you’re probably pretty compatible. Laughing activates different parts of your brain, and if you both are releasing all the good endorphins and other feel-good vibes at the same time, then it’ll help to keep your relationship strong. Being able to laugh with your partner shows compatibility.
- You have similar lifestyles. Do you like to work out together? Maybe you both like to hike or rock climb. Traveling, biking and even visiting museums are all things you can do together as a couple. And, if you like to do the same things and lead similar lifestyles, then you have high compatibility.
- You communicate similarly. Communication is one of the areas couples identify as a main problem in their relationship. If you feel that you and your partner communicate similarly or well together, then you have a high rate of compatibility. This is essential for your relationship. If you can’t talk to each other or you struggle to talk to each other, then getting on the same page for a variety of things will make it tough for your relationship. A relationship that doesn’t have good communication is a relationship that doesn’t last very long.
- You trust each other. Trust is a major part of any relationship. A lot of couples struggle with infidelity and other emotional, traumatic baggage from prior relationship and life experiences. Couples that trust each other can typically make it through many relationship hurdles better than couples who don’t.
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- You prioritize individual and collective mental health. Couples who recognize their relationship is only as strong as their individual mental health and mental health as a couple are not only compatible, but they stay together longer. Being in a relationship that focuses on the well-being of your mental health, both as individuals and together, will only serve to make your relationship better in the long run.
- You have similar political views. You might not think political views will make or break your relationship, but many people conflate their politics with their morals or vice versa. This can have a major impact on relationships. So, before you go browsing online for that perfect silicone ring, make sure you and your partner have discussed politics and identified your similarities.
- You know each others’ histories. Knowing each others’ relationship and family history can have a major impact on your compatibility. If you don’t know anything about your partner beyond who they currently are today, then you should ask them to tell you more about who they are and where they come from. Knowing their history can explain a lot of the behaviors. If you want to get serious, then this is essential for a strong relationship.
- You have similar sexual preferences. Let’s face it; the bedroom is important in any relationship. You don’t have to visit a sex club or anything like that (unless that’s what you’re into!), but it’s still important that you and your partner have discussed your sexual preferences so you can ensure you’re compatible. Unspoken preferences and dislikes can lead to a rocky foundation — basically, don’t keep your preferences a secret!
Determining your compatibility with your partner can seem tough if you’ve never sat down to outline it. However, with just a few simple steps, you can find out how your partner lines up with you, ensuring your relationship is as strong as possible.
Chris contributes articles with advice for brides and grooms on vows, ceremonies, and wedding traditions. He draws on his experience as a wedding officiant to give perspective on crafting a meaningful ceremony. Outside of work, Chris volunteers coaching youth sports in the community.
