He likes to party hard, I like staying home. Will our relationship last?

Opposites attract. That’s a lesson we all learnt in science chapters about magnetic poles. But the saying often transcends to the realm of dating and relationships as well.

While it is true several couples thrive on their differences and striking personalities, finding a balance between opposites can be challenging as well. The difference in their personalities, lifestyle choices, backgrounds and interests can both lead to irreparable differences and individual growth as well as each partner learns from the others and gains new perspectives.

One such situation that crops up among couples is when one partner is a party person and the other one prefers spending quality time at home.

Before Joe Jonas and Sophie Turner released an official statement to confirm their separation, foreign media reported that their striking personality and lifestyle choices were among the reasons that led to differences between them.

TMZ had earlier reported that the couple had been experiencing problems for around six months due to their differing lifestyles. Turner's alleged affinity for nightlife reportedly caused friction in their relationship, leading Jonas to file for divorce. Joe and Sophie, however, refuted any such speculation with their joint statement.

While it might not have been the root cause of trouble for the much-adored celebrity couple who have now decided to part ways, many people often find themselves asking this question in the context of one partner being a party animal and the other one not - “will this relationship last?”

If you also find yourself in such a conundrum, read on as we spoke to relationship experts who shared their insights and revealed the secrets to making love thrive despite such differences.

What experts say

Life and Relationship Coach, Sheetal Shaparia, offered the perspective that love is not about conforming to the same lifestyle but about finding harmony in differences. “Love is not about having the same lifestyle but about finding a common ground between your differences and choosing to dance to the rhythm of your hearts with each other,” she said.

She admitted that contrasting lifestyle choices can be challenging but they can be dealt well with communication, compromise, and understanding. She emphasised the importance of respecting and accommodating each other’s preferences, interests, and values, which can lay the foundations for a fulfilling relationship.

“It’s important to respect each other’s choices and to accommodate each other’s wants and needs. Building a strong foundation of trust and shared values can help bridge the gap between differing lifestyles, ultimately leading to a lasting and fulfilling relationship,” she added.

Finding the balance

Agreeing, Shivani Misri Sadhoo, a counselling psychologist, shared that long-lasting relationships are dependent on open lines of communication, compromise, shared values and a keen understanding of each other's distinctness.

It is all about being willing to find a middle path.

“Differences in social preferences can be overcome if both individuals are willing to find a middle path. Open discussions with respect to needs, expectations, and finding activities that suit both parties can strengthen the bond. Respect for each other's choices and a willingness to occasionally step out of one's comfort zone can lead to a lasting relationship,” she said.

Shivani, who said that she comes across clients with such issues, asserted it is entirely possible for couples to make their relationship work even when they have contrasting lifestyle habits. She added that many successful relationships are built on such differences.

“Firstly, couples should have honest conversations about their individual lifestyles, preferences, and expectations. Understanding each other's needs and desires is crucial. Once these differences are acknowledged, couples can work together to find common ground. This might involve compromising on certain activities or setting aside designated "me-time" to pursue individual interests,” she said.

“Moreover, couples can use their differing habits as opportunities for personal growth. Encouraging each other to step out of their comfort zones can lead to a more fulfilling and well-rounded life,” she added.

“As long as both partners are willing to adapt and support each other, these differences can enrich their connection rather than jeopardize it,” she added.

Hope you took notes!