Unlike life partners — what we consider to be soul-mate relationships or “the one” — twin flame relationships are intense and challenging relationships that force us to deal with our unresolved issues and, through trials, tribulations, and breakthroughs, become a bigger person. Because of this intensity, it’s uncommon for twin flames to be a lifelong partnership. Rather, they are people who enter your life for a period of time to help you grow and steer you on course. “It is common for those relationships to separate because they are very difficult to maintain.”

— Sophie Saint Thomas, What Is a Twin Flame, and How Is It Different From a Soul Mate?, allure, 2022 (via)