Core Concepts
Partners gradually adopt each other's personality traits, habits, and behaviors over the course of a relationship.
Abstract
The content discusses the "Michelangelo phenomenon" - the observation that over time, partners in a relationship begin to resemble each other in terms of personality, well-being, and health.
The author provides a personal anecdote to illustrate this concept. When the author first met their partner, she was very wholesome and did not use profanity. However, over time, the author's partner has picked up the author's habit of using foul language. Conversely, the author has also adopted some of the partner's positive organizational skills.
The content explains that this convergence of personality traits is a common phenomenon observed by researchers. It also highlights how this dynamic can impact lifestyle changes, as it is easier to adopt a new health regimen if both partners are on board.
Quotes
"Today, my partner, sadly, has caught some of my bad language habits — and I feel quite guilty now as I write this. Even more so because I caught some of her amazing organizational skills and forethought."