Have you ever pondered whether your relationship was destined to be? It might indeed have a profound purpose, though it doesn't necessarily imply that you and your partner are soulmates or that your union is destined to endure. Instead, it could be a karmic relationship.

Let's delve into the concept of a karmic relationship, the telltale signs that you might be entangled in one, and how to discern when it's time to part ways.

What is a karmic relationship?

A karmic relationship is a connection designed to facilitate the lessons we must learn in this lifetime concerning love and partnership. In all likelihood, each of us will encounter such a karmic relationship during our journey. It could be likened to a type of soulmate relationship because it involves a connection between two souls. However, it diverges from the kind of soulmates known for their healing nature. These relationships are not typically a smooth voyage; rather, they are characterized by the love that challenges you and compels you to evolve.

From a spiritual standpoint, the concept behind karmic relationships is that both parties made an agreement before their souls embarked on this lifetime journey to aid one another on their respective paths. Very often, there are numerous unresolved issues from past lives. When people open to learning rather than try to control each other, then much healing can occur.

In this sense, karmic relationships serve as guides or mentors, and they tend to be transient. According to Shannon Kaiser, author of "The Self-Love Experiment," these relationships exist to facilitate soul-level growth in often challenging, push-and-pull ways. Nonetheless, they are not intended to endure for extended periods, as they primarily aim to resolve karmic imbalances carried over from past experiences.

Signs you're in a karmic relationship

‍

1. There's an instant connection

You might sense that you've encountered this person before. This feeling can be positive or accompanied by some fear, contingent on the nature of your karmic connection.

2. There's a lot of drama

Karmic relationships are frequently marked by tumult and drama, with toxicity sometimes creeping in, signifying a need for healing or detachment.

3. Things feel off early on

Early in the relationship, you may notice red flags, which are often integral to the lessons this relationship is meant to impart. These lessons could revolve around healing toxic behaviors or avoiding unhealthy dynamics in the future.

4. They make you feel frustrated

If you find yourself consistently frustrated and misunderstood, this could be a sign of a karmic relationship. These relationships are rarely seamless; they are about growth, often through challenging circumstances.

5. They're unpleasant to be around

Their presence may weigh heavily on you, despite an inexplicable reluctance to let go.

6. They're addicting

Karmic relationships can become all-encompassing, despite the inherent tension or frustration.

7. There's a lot of miscommunication

Miscommunication is a common theme, serving to highlight your values, expectations, and areas where healing is required in your relationships.

8. There are a lot of highs and lows

The relationship is characterized by inconsistency, with moments of perfection interspersed with the anticipation of future difficulties.

9. They're repetitive

The cycles of highs and lows tend to recur, and you may find yourself grappling with the same issues from past relationships, underscoring the lessons you need to learn.

10. They become codependent

Karmic relationships can rapidly evolve into codependent unions, where you feel compelled to devote all your time and energy to your partner.

11. They shine a light on your fears

This relationship will bring your fears about love, the future, and your partnership to the forefront, leaving no room for avoidance.

12. They bring out the worst in you

The intensity of a karmic relationship can lead even the most composed individuals to exhibit undesirable qualities, potentially creating significant problems unless past issues are addressed.

13. They make you exhausted

The ups and downs, miscommunications, and codependency can be emotionally, mentally, and energetically draining, especially when the person is present.

14. You feel like you can't let go

Despite all the challenges, you might find yourself making excuses for your partner because the connection feels incredibly strong and fated.

15. They don't last

It's crucial to recognize that karmic relationships can become unhealthy. The objective is not to endure a toxic dynamic, but to glean the lessons and eventually move on when you're ready.

When karmic relationships turn toxic

Even well-intentioned individuals in love can find themselves in a toxic relationship, which is often the nature of karmic connections. According to Shannon Kaiser, a deteriorating situation is evident when nothing changes, signifying a failure to absorb the lessons presented in the relationship. This stasis serves as a signal that both partners must reflect and learn from the unresolved issues in their shared past, lest the relationship further deteriorate.

‍