Kindred Spirits Definition & 7 Signs When You Find Yours

Have you ever felt that instant connection with someone, like you’ve known them forever? That’s the magic of kindred spirits.

In this post, we will talk about what they are, why they matter, and how to spot them in the wild.

Kindred Spirits Are…

So, what’s a kindred spirit anyway? It’s not just some fluffy term for a bestie. It goes deeper than that.

Kindred spirits definition:

Kindred spirits are like your cosmic twins – people who get you on an almost freaky level. They share your values, interests, and maybe even your weird obsession with obscure 80s movies.

Sabrina Romanoff, a clinical psychologist, puts it this way: kindred spirits are like-minded folks who form strong bonds based on shared perspectives. It’s like finding someone who speaks your secret language, you know?

Here’s the kicker – these connections can be fleeting or lifelong.

You might meet a kindred spirit on a train and never see them again, but that brief encounter sticks with you. Or, you could have a kindred spirit you’ve known since kindergarten.

Either way, when you reconnect, it’s like no time has passed at all.

Signs of Your Kindred Spirits

How do you know if you’ve stumbled upon a kindred spirit? Here are some dead giveaways:

1. You’re Two Peas in a Pod: You’ve got loads in common, from your taste in music to your life goals. It’s like looking in a mirror, but the reflection talks back.
2. Instant Connection: You know that feeling when you meet someone and it’s like, “Where have you been all my life?” That’s kindred spirit territory, folks.
3. Ride or Die Bond: Distance and time? They’ve got nothing on your connection. You could go years without talking, but when you do, it’s like you never left off.
4. Energy Twins: You’re on the same wavelength, literally. Sometimes you can tell what they’re thinking or feeling without a word being said. Spooky, right?
5. Comfort Zone Central: Being around them feels like slipping into your favorite pair of sweatpants – comfy, safe, and totally judgment-free.
6. Your Personal Cheerleader: They’ve got your back, no questions asked. They understand your crazy dreams because, hey, they probably have the same ones.
7. Déjà Vu Vibes: Ever met someone and felt like you’ve known them forever? That’s your kindred spirit radar pinging.

How To Nurture Kindred Spirit Connections

Finding a kindred spirit is awesome, but keeping that connection strong? That’s where the real magic happens. Here are some tips to keep that cosmic bond thriving:

1. Stay in Touch: Even if you’re miles apart, make an effort to stay connected. A quick text, a funny meme, or a heartfelt email can keep the bond strong.
2. Be Present: When you’re with your kindred spirit, really be there. Put away the phone, forget about your to-do list, and soak in the moment.
3. Support Their Dreams: Kindred spirits often share similar aspirations. Be their biggest cheerleader, just like they are for you.
4. Create Shared Experiences: Plan activities or trips together. These shared memories will strengthen your bond and give you plenty to reminisce about later.
5. Be Honest: One of the best things about kindred spirits is that you can be your true self with them. Don’t be afraid to open up and share your thoughts and feelings.
6. Respect Differences: Even kindred spirits aren’t carbon copies. Celebrate the little differences that make your relationship unique.
7. Practice Gratitude: Never take your kindred spirit for granted. Let them know how much they mean to you regularly.

Why Kindred Spirits Matter

Now, you might be thinking, “Cool story, bro, but why should I care?” Well, let me tell you, kindred spirits aren’t just nice to have around – they’re like emotional superfoods. Here’s why:

1. They’re Your Fun Buddies: Kindred spirits make life a blast. Whether you’re binge-watching your favorite show or embarking on a wild adventure, everything’s better with your cosmic twin by your side. Research shows that this kind of companionship isn’t just fun – it’s good for your mental health too. It boosts happiness and social satisfaction, making life a whole lot sweeter. [1]
2. They’re Your Mirror: Kindred spirits reflect the best parts of you back at yourself. They help you see your strengths and embrace your quirks. It’s like having a walking, talking self-esteem booster.
3. They’ve Got Your Back: When life throws you curveballs (and let’s face it, it always does), kindred spirits are there to catch them with you. They offer emotional support that can shield you from negative emotions like fear and loneliness. A 2022 study even found that this kind of support can be a real lifesaver during tough times, like, oh I don’t know, a global pandemic? [2]
4. They Inspire You: Kindred spirits push you to be your best self. They introduce you to new ideas and experiences that align with your shared interests. It’s like having a personal growth coach who gets you.
5. They’re Your Reality Check: Sometimes, we need someone to call us on our BS. Kindred spirits do this in the gentlest way possible because they understand where you’re coming from.

Kindred Spirits vs. Soulmates

Let’s dive deeper into this cosmic conundrum. Kindred spirits and soulmates might sound like they’re cut from the same celestial cloth, but trust me, they’re as different as apples and oranges – both fruit, sure, but with their own unique flavors.

1. Kindred Spirits: Your Cosmic Twins

Think of kindred spirits as your spiritual doppelgangers.

These are the folks who just get you, no explanation needed. You share the same wavelength, finish each other’s sentences, and probably have the same reaction to that new Netflix show everyone’s talking about.

Here’s the kicker – kindred spirits aren’t limited to romantic relationships. Nope, they can pop up anywhere in your life.

Your bestie from third grade? Kindred spirit. That random person you met at a coffee shop and ended up chatting with for hours? Yep, could be a kindred spirit too.

The beauty of kindred spirits is in their similarity to you. It’s like looking in a mirror and seeing a reflection that’s somehow cooler than you (impossible, I know, but stay with me here).

You share interests, values, and often have eerily similar life experiences. It’s comforting, validating, and just plain fun.

2. Soulmates: Your Cosmic Complements

Now, soulmates? That’s a whole different ballgame.

While kindred spirits are your spiritual twins, soulmates are more like your spiritual… yin to your yang. They’re often (but not always) romantic partners, and here’s the twist – they might be completely different from you in many ways.

Soulmates are often the ones who challenge you, push you out of your comfort zone, and help you grow. They’re not always easy relationships, but they’re profoundly transformative.

It’s like they have a key to parts of your soul you didn’t even know existed.

The connection with a soulmate is often described as intense, almost magnetic. It’s not always smooth sailing – in fact, soulmate relationships can be downright turbulent. But there’s a depth to the connection that feels, well, soul-deep.

3. The Key Differences

• Similarity vs. Complementarity: Kindred spirits are like your spiritual clone, while soulmates are more like your spiritual opposite (in a good way).
• Ease vs. Challenge: Relationships with kindred spirits often feel easy and comfortable. Soulmate relationships, on the other hand, can be more challenging but ultimately more growth-inducing.
• Variety vs. Singularity: You can have multiple kindred spirits in your life, but the idea of a soulmate often (though not always) implies a singular, unique connection.
• Purpose: Kindred spirits often serve to validate and comfort us, while soulmates are thought to help us evolve and grow as individuals.
• Relationship Type: Kindred spirits can be found in any type of relationship – friends, family, even pets! Soulmates are more commonly associated with romantic partnerships, though this isn’t a hard and fast rule.

Here’s a little nugget of wisdom for you: you don’t have to choose between kindred spirits and soulmates.

Life’s big enough for both. Your soulmate might challenge you to climb that mountain you’ve always been afraid of, while your kindred spirit will be right there with you, huffing and puffing and cracking jokes all the way to the top.

So whether you’re vibing with your kindred spirit over your shared love of obscure 90s cartoons, or growing through the challenges your soulmate presents, remember this:

Both types of connections are valuable, beautiful, and worth cherishing. They’re just different flavors of the cosmic connection we all crave.

And hey, who knows? Maybe you’ll hit the spiritual jackpot and find someone who’s both your kindred spirit AND your soulmate. Now that’s what I call winning at the game of life!

Real Life Story

Now, I’ve got a story for you that’ll make you believe in kindred spirits if you don’t already. Meet Chris Schmenk, a small-town woman from Marysville who found her kindred spirits halfway across the world.

Chris grew up in a sleepy town of 6,500 people. Her idea of global cuisine was Chef Boyardee’s pizza. But then, life took a wild turn. In 2019, she found himself in Japan, feeling like a fish out of water in the bustling cities of Tokyo and Osaka.

But then, she visited Yori, a small town eerily similar to Marysville. Suddenly, everything clicked. The people, the vibe, even the local government structure – it was all familiar. Chris felt at home, even though he was halfway around the world.

The kicker? When it was time to leave, Chris said “sayonara” to her new friends. Their response? “We’ll see you soon in Marysville.” Talk about kindred spirits!

This story shows that kindred spirits can pop up in the most unexpected places. You might find them in your hometown or on the other side of the globe. The key is to keep your heart open and your kindred spirit radar on.

Wrap It Up

At the end of the day, kindred spirits are like finding a piece of home wherever you go.

They’re the ones who get your jokes without explanation, who understand your quirks, and who make you feel seen and heard in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Whether you find your kindred spirit in a childhood friend, a random stranger on a bus, or a small town on the other side of the world, cherish these connections.

They’re a reminder that no matter how big and scary the world can seem, there are always people out there who speak your soul’s language.

So keep your eyes open and your heart ready. Your kindred spirit might be just around the corner, waiting to make your world a little brighter, a little funnier, and a whole lot more interesting.

After all, life’s too short to go through it without your cosmic twins by your side.

Remember, in the grand cosmic dance of life, kindred spirits are the ones who know all your moves without ever having to practice.

So dance on, friends, and may you find your perfect dance partners along the way!

For Further Reading

1. Why is Everyone so Mean to Me? 25 Reasons & Help
2. Flirting vs. Harassment: What’s the Difference? 23 Signs & Help
3. 5 Spiritual Signs That Someone Is Thinking About You Sexually
4. 11 Reasons & Help for When “My Husband Yells at Me”