Is fate real? TikTok’s 'meet people twice' theory says yes

TikTok is on the destiny bandwagon 

The viral theory is based on the concept that if someone is destined to be in your life, you’ll meet them twice. Image: Pexels

Contrary to main character syndrome, TikTok's 'meet people twice' theory reminds us we’re part of a bigger, uncontrollable script. You'll meet again if someone is meant to be in your life.

Are you frustrated that dating apps gatekeep your potential partners in 'standout jail'? Well, there’s another elusive algorithm for meeting your future partner out in the wild – and it’s called fate.

You may want to meet your person IRL, but countless obstacles can prevent you from actually meeting them. Perhaps you walked into the same venue at different times, or they just left before you arrived. Maybe you had a brief encounter years ago when they were with someone else… Until now.

If it’s giving a sliding doors rom-com moment, that’s where we’re headed. TikTok is obsessed with this romanticism. It’s called the "meet people twice" theory.

Explaining the 'meet people twice' theory

The viral theory is based on the concept that if someone is destined to be in your life, you’ll meet them twice. It's the universe’s way of giving you a second chance. Much like 'invisible string theory', it assumes that a higher power is working in your favour, weaving your person into your life over time, until you end up in the right place at the right time.  

Why does it resonate? It taps into our love and need for stories where everything falls into place perfectly. It’s the happy ending we all secretly dream of when everything works out despite the ups and downs to get there. It’s pretty endearing, especially at a time when the world is in total chaos.

The idea that the universe is conspiring to bring certain people back into our lives is damn romantic and very Paolo Coelho. It’s a nice story, but sceptics would argue it’s just that – a story. Our brains are wired to look for patterns and meaning in seemingly random events. It’s comforting, but it’s not fate.

Psychology or magic?

Have you ever learned a new word and suddenly found it everywhere? Have you discovered a new “ick,” and now every new romantic prospect has it? That’s the Baader-Meinhof phenomenon in action, also known as the frequency illusion.

It feels special when you meet someone and then see them again because your brain is designed to identify patterns. These patterns develop and confirm your biases.

So, a cynic would argue that you just met someone, and your brain took note. If they reappear, it’s simply because your brain is hyper-aware of them now. It’s not magic; it’s psychology.

Serendipity and self-awareness

It’s easy to get carried away with romantic ideas; I always do. But the universe isn’t solely focused on your love life. It has a lot going on.

That being said, life's too short to dismiss the magic entirely. So, why not entertain the concept with a grain of salt?

As a dating coach, I urge all my clients to reach for whatever makes them feel empowered, but not at the price of their ability to take responsibility for their relationships.

Believing too much in the theory can become an excuse for not taking responsibility. Waiting for the universe to drop someone into your lap is a passive approach to life. And you might be waiting forever.

Luck meets opportunity

Serendipitous encounters are a mix of luck and our actions. Self-awareness is key to recognising and making the most of these “second chances.”

Life is full of uncertainty – embrace it. But instead of waiting for a sign, make your opportunity. Follow up on those serendipitous double-takes. Be proactive in your bump-ins. The magic happens when you take control, not when you rely on fate to do the heavy lifting.

Here are five ways to get into the serendipitous swing of things.

#1. Be open and present

You never know when someone from your past might reappear or someone new might appear! Keep your eyes and heart open.

#2. Fllow up

Don’t let the moment slip away if you run into someone again. Reach out, suggest plans, and see where it leads.

#3. Consider the timing

Sometimes, timing is everything. Maybe the universe brought them back when you’re both ready or to show you you’re not ready yet.

#4. Trust your gut

Your intuition is really powerful. If it feels right, it probably is.

#5. Be grateful

Whether they stay or leave, be thankful for the experience. Each encounter teaches us something valuable we can use toward the next one.

Originally published as Is fate real? TikTok’s 'meet people twice' theory says yes