"As a collective group, I’d say we put a little too much pressure on first impressions. It’s unrealistic to think that someone will get a true idea of who you are in one meeting. And it’s even more unrealistic (and rare) to hit it off with someone and keep the spark alive for the long term. I’ve suffered my fair share of not-so-good first impressions, on the giving and receiving end, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t sometimes wish for a do-over. Leave it to TikTok to confirm that I’m not alone in this and that second chances often have the opportunity to change everything.
To the lyrics of “Till I See You Again” by The Hails, couples are posting their experience with the “Meet Them Twice” theory, claiming that it is the reason why they are happily together. So for all you second-chance skeptics out there, listen closely. We are breaking down what this theory is, how it works, and whether or not you should consider taking advantage of it.
What is the “Meet Them Twice” theory?
The most annoying dating advice in the world is “What’s meant to be will be,” but this theory is based on exactly that. The “Meet Them Twice” theory explains that if someone is meant to be in your life, you’ll cross paths again. So, whether you went on a bad first date and never saw them again or you were with someone for a brief period before breaking up, you will meet them again later in life if you’re meant to be together.
For anyone who has ever wondered if “right person, wrong time” has truth to it, couples who are posting on TikTok praising the “Meet Them Twice” theory would reply with a resounding YES. Jasmin Galindo claims that she and her husband are the “definition” of it. They dated in high school for a few months, ran into each other four years later, became inseparable, and are now married with two kids. Galindo’s video has 3.2 million views and many users are sharing their own similar stories in the comments. Some are even saying things like “Show this to my ex,” hoping for a second chance at their love story.
But exes aren’t the only ones who are finding themselves in this situation. Fitness influencer and trainer, Whitney Simmons, has talked at length about how terrible her first date was with her now husband. They both agreed a second date was not in the cards, but after meeting a second time at a friend get-together, they hit it off and became inseparable. This is an instance where do-overs can change everything, as long as you’re open to the possibility.
How does the “Meet Them Twice” theory work?
I’ll admit, it does sound a little woo-woo. But I do think there is some truth in “right person, wrong time.” For example, among the many videos posted about this trend, numerous couples are speaking about the fact that they met when they were young and reconnected as adults. I don’t know about you, but the 14-year-old version of me isn’t anything like the 28-year-old version of me. Growing up can play a huge factor in how you connect with others.
“Call it what you want—coincidence or fate, but it does make the world of dating feel a little bit more hopeful.”
Similarly, there are situations where you might meet someone great but for one reason or another, it just doesn’t work out. Maybe the vibe is just off for an unexplainable reason like influencer Rachel Solomon shared. Or maybe you don’t live in the same place at the time, and years later, you end up living in the same town and running into each other at the grocery store. Things like this happen all the time. Call it what you want—coincidence or fate, but it does make the world of dating feel a little bit more hopeful.
Should you give someone a second chance?
Second chances have proven to be worth it for many, but keep in mind that social media is a highlight reel. With that said, always consider whether or not rekindling with an ex is a good idea. Sometimes, breakups have a lot more to do with your compatibility than your timing. Just because you might have the opportunity to give your relationship another go, doesn’t mean you should. Consider if your values align, if you trust them, and what has changed, if anything, for it to possibly work again. Because sure, the “Meet Them Twice” theory has worked great for some couples, but it won’t magically fix old issues. My best advice? Follow your heart and stay hopeful, but use your head. You never know what, or who, is waiting for you next.
Hailey Bouche, Associate Editor
As an Associate Editor for The Everygirl, Hailey Bouche oversees, writes, and edits content across various categories on the site. From the pitching stage through publishing, she works alongside the team to ensure that the content that our readers see every day is inspiring, relatable, and timely.