S6 Episode 6: Opposites May Attract but They Eventually Repel

Episode Summary

It is natural to be attracted to a person with views, behaviors and personality traits that are different than our own. However, there is a difference between attraction and the ability to sustain a long-term relationship. Initially it will be exciting and new, until the differences create tension in the relationship.

Humans tend to be drawn to those that look like them and share their belief systems and behaviors. While it is possible to be in a successful relationship with a partner who is dissimilar, there will be challenges that will need to be overcome. Empathy becomes a critical aspect of these types of relationships because it helps each person see the other’s perspective.

As we age, we want harmony in a relationship. Conflict will only lead to resentment and a loss of intimacy. The more two people share in common, the easier it will be to work together in a partnership, especially during difficult times. Being on the same page aids in the building of trust, respect and acceptance.

At the end of each episode, Marlee and Lis vent about commonly experienced issues in romantic relationships. In this episode, the ladies discuss how offensive is when a partner tells you “no offense” before they insult you.

Show Notes

Do opposites really attract in romantic relationships? Initially they might, but eventually they repel. For that reason, opposites should avoid getting together. When you’re opposites in many ways or have different world views based on your life experiences, it can cause unnecessary tension in your relationship.

In the beginning, when you connect with a person who’s the opposite of you, it can feel exciting and interesting. But as time goes on, the things you were attracted to can become exhausting to you. You should look for someone aligned with you on spending habits, social habits, sexual habits, and more.

When you enter into a relationship, find someone who has the same values and lifestyle as you if you’re thinking long term. With the rise of social media and dating apps, it’s become even easier to find more like-minded people. This can help you avoid future irritation and discomfort that opposites have a higher potential to confront in their relationship.

In our society, we romanticize the idea that opposites attract. We’re fascinated by finding qualities in others we may not see in ourselves. However, you can be drawn to something initially and recognize later down the line that these qualities set you apart more than they tie you together.

In this episode, the vent session topic is: When your partner says “no offense” after insulting something. Why do people think saying “no offense” mitigates their insensitive insults? It means they know you’ll be offended, so what’s the point? If you mask your honesty with this tactic, it can hurt your relationship. It’s better to keep it to yourself or speak more directly.

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