Twin Flames & Soulmates: Everything You Need to Know

The differences and similarities between the most powerful soul connections

Co-authored by Aly Rusciano

Last Updated: November 21, 2022 References

What’s a twin flame?

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What’s a soulmate?

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Similarities

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Differences

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Can soulmates be twin flames?

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Should you be with your soulmate or twin flame?

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Are these karmic relationships?

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Which soul-connection is better?

Have you ever felt like you’ve known someone your whole life, even if you’ve just met them? This could be because they’re your twin flame or soulmate. Now, we know what you may be thinking: “Those are both the same thing!” But, contrary to popular belief, twin flame and soulmate connections are very different. We’ve answered all your questions on twin flames vs. soulmates in this guide, from what they are to how they compare.

Things You Should Know

Twin flames are matching halves of the same soul, while soulmates are 2 energetically connected souls.
Your soulmate can be just about anyone you feel like yourself around, and it doesn’t have to be romantic.
You only have 1 twin flame, and they may push you to think about your insecurities and past mistakes.

Section 1 of 8:

What’s a twin flame?

Twin flames are 2 halves of the same soul. Also known as mirror souls or the “other half,” twin flames are essentially 1 soul in separate bodies. You have a deep connection with your other half because of this—you share parts of your soul, after all! A twin flame relationship will bring out the best in you and help you become your truest self.^{[1]
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- You’ve probably met your twin flame if you feel a strong, judgment-free connection with someone and share similar personality traits, opinions, and interests.

Section 2 of 8:

What’s a soulmate?

A soulmate is someone you have a deep emotional connection with. Typically, this connection is romantic, but it doesn’t have to be! Your souls and energies are attracted to each other, and you feel like you can be yourself around this person.^{[2]
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- You’ll know you’ve found your soulmate if you immediately feel a strong connection to them—think of it like love at first sight. For some reason or another, it feels like you’ve known them your entire life.

Section 3 of 8:

Similarities

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Twin flames and soulmates have a deep emotional connection. It can be hard to distinguish if you've found your soulmate or twin flame at first because the initial connection is so similar. Both relationships are oddly familiar upon first greeting and leave you feeling loved and respected.
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Both are a part of your destiny. Many people believe that meeting your twin flame or soulmate is written in the stars. You’re destined to meet each other, no matter where life takes you. Your energetic connection draws you closer and closer to each other until an everlasting relationship is formed.

Section 4 of 8:

Differences

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Twin flames are 1 soul in 2 bodies, while soulmates are 2 souls in 2 bodies. The main difference between these connections is how they’re formed. Twin flames share a soul, whereas soulmates are souls with shared energy.
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You can have more than one soulmate but only 1 twin flame. Because twin flames are born from the separation of a single soul, you can’t possibly have more than one. On the other hand, soulmates can come in all forms. A friend, family member, or romantic partner can all be your soulmate at the same time.^{[3]
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A twin flame connection can quickly turn toxic. Twin flames are essentially mirrors of ourselves. Although you have a deep connection with your other half, they may also show you parts of yourself you’d rather forget. Imbalances and unhealthy habits can form in a twin flame relationship because you’re both too similar.^{[4]
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- Help each other grow and evolve as individuals rather than tearing each other down. Work through your weaknesses together.

Section 5 of 8:

Can soulmates be twin flames?

No, soulmates cannot be twin flames. Soulmates are different connections and relationships you make in life, whereas a twin flame is your other half. You only have 1 twin flame, and because you’re mirrors of each other, you can’t be soulmates.

Section 6 of 8:

Should you be with your soulmate or twin flame?

You can end up with your soulmate or twin flame. Who you spend the rest of your life with romantically or platonically is totally up to you! Follow your heart and see where the pieces fall into place.
- Typically, soulmates are more likely to form lasting romantic relationships because they’re more compatible.
- Twin flames generally don’t cultivate romantic feelings, but it’s not impossible.

Section 7 of 8:

Are these karmic relationships?

Yes, twin flames and soulmates are considered karmic relationships. Karmic relationships are connections of intense inward learning and healing.^{[5]
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Research source} Your twin flame and soulmate both present different challenges, pushing you to be the best version of yourself. These connections force you to look inward and learn from past traumas and experiences, making them karmic.
- Soulmates present outer, worldly problems that challenge you, while a twin flame reflects your inner insecurities.

Section 8 of 8:

Which soul-connection is better?

One connection isn’t necessarily better than the other. The answer to this question comes down to one thing: what do you think? Twin flame relationships may be a bit unstable, but they lead to self-empowerment and awareness. A soulmate can be just about anyone you feel strongly connected to, but it may be harder to decipher the meaning of each relationship.^{[6]
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Research source} Ultimately, a twin flame isn’t better than a soulmate and vice versa, but it all depends on your personal opinion.