Opposites Do Attract! Here's How to Make it Work

Dating someone who is nothing like you can be a fun, thrilling adventure. However, the differences can often lead to incompatibility between partners if not handled the right way. Industrial psychologist Dr Sandeep Gandhi, who's also the founder of Serefe.org, shares how you can enjoy each other's differences to live brand new every day rather than give in to incompatibility.

Keep the trust
"The key to a happy and a long term relationship is trust. In spite of the differences, one must learn to trust our partner to deal with incompatibility issues."

Be yourself and let them be themselves
"It is very important to provide a space for your partner within a relationship that helps them grow and be themselves. A personal space within a relationship helps deal with a lot of issues and encourages honesty as well as trust among the couple."

Take time to cool off
"When disagreements arise, do not let emotions take over you. Taking decisions or acting out in spontaneity of emotions sometimes disbalances the relationship. So. take some time to cool off and then communicate what you really feel."

Support your bae
"The most comforting factor of any relationship is the feeling that even when you are drowning in an ocean of problems, you still have someone there for you. The mere presence of a partner provides a relaxing space to deal with the problems clearly."

Focus on similarities, not differences
"Your differences are what makes the relationship interesting and the similarities make it stronger. So, try doing more things which you both enjoy doing together. Sharing bonds makes the troublesome differences look trivial."

Strike a balance
"It's easy to lose yourself in a relationship if only the interests of one partner are in the forefront. So, take turns to do each of your favourite things. Even if your interests don’t match, one can take turns to do their thing. For example, one time you may perform an activity your partner likes and the other time you both may do what you like."

Don't be afraid to try new things
"Trying new things together strengthens a bond. All too often we let the fear of the unknown stop us. Trying new things not only helps us to vanquish those fears, but it also allows us to expand our minds and learn—both about said new thing, and about ourselves."