Why Do Opposites Attract? Here are 10 Reasons Why

It has been scientifically proven that opposites do attract. The same sentiment does not apply to platonic friendships though. When it comes to colleagues and friends, we are drawn to people who are similar to us. So, why do opposites attract? Here are 10 reasons why.

We all learned in science class that opposites attract. Atoms and what not. However, it has been scientifically proven that opposites do attract, not only because we are interested in new and different things, but also because of psychological patterns in personality. Interestingly enough, the same sentiment does not apply to platonic friendships. When it comes to colleagues and friends, we are drawn to people who are similar to us. So, why do opposites attract? Here are 10 reasons why.

1. Different Perspectives

It is really enlightening to have a different perspective on things than your significant other, provided that you both respect each other’s opinions. When you have different perspectives you will always have things to talk about and share. Additionally, they also may see something in you that you never say in yourself and compliment you on it.

2. Curiosity

Experiencing something that people haven’t before historically piques interest and makes them want to learn more, therefore, if someone is very different than you then you will be more attracted to them because you want to figure it out.

3. Excitement

Curiosity breeds excitement. Hence why people speak about the “honeymoon phase” where everything is exciting and new.

4. It’s In Our DNA

Science has proven that opposites are just plain attracted to each other. It is in our blood to want the opposite of what we know…something with MCH genes and physical attraction. I won’t bore you with the details. Science has also shown that marriages with opposite partners last longer.

5. Push Each Other

A lot of times people can be attracted to certain qualities in others that they themselves wish they possessed. When you spend a lot of time with someone you tend to pick up certain mannerisms, sayings, or tendencies. That is why many people lovingly say that their partner makes them a better person.

6. Different Interests

While it is definitely nice to bond with someone over similar interests, it can be fun to learn different hobbies and interests from your partner. Who knows, maybe you might find that you love something you would’ve never tried otherwise.

7. Challenge Each Other

Rolled into having different interests, pushing each other, curiosity, and excitement is the fact that you will keep on challenging each other in a way that makes you both step out of your comfort zones and be the best you. If you still find yourself wondering “why do opposites attract,” keep reading.

8. You Make A Good Team

They call it a partner for a reason! If you are lacking in one area and your partner can pick up the slack, you make one damn good team. It’s all about the give and take and being on a team with one another. If you have two people who have the same qualities then you won’t be able to help each other in the same way.

9. Introvert/Extrovert Scale

When one is more talkative, outgoing, and high energy and the other one is more laid back and quiet they, again, balance each other out. Put two loud people in a room and see if either listen to the other. Or, just watch any episode of Real Housewives and you’ll get a similar effect of people yelling over one another. On the flip side, put two introverts in a room together and they won’t find something to talk about.

10. Add Unique Value

Why would you date someone who is a carbon copy of you? I mean, unless you’re a narcissist, there is nothing sexier than someone who is uniquely themselves. When I meet someone who has had different experiences and can make me look at the world from a different perspective, I am hooked.