Coincidences that seem out of the ordinary yet meaningful are intriguing, amusing, mystical even. They can make us question our very existence in this human plane. How do we interpret synchronicities like these? Here I look at how to interpret synchronicities, as told by professionals.
How to Interpret Synchronicities
The following are ways to explain coincidences that are meaningful. As I explained in my article Signs of Synchronicity where I give real-life examples, the terms coincidences and synchronicity are interchangeable where the coincidences are meaningful (that’s how we define it in this context).
So, How Do You Explain Coincidences?
I’ll start with the works of psychiatrist and psychotherapist, Bernard Beitman, MD. 1 I follow this with that of the psychoanalyst, Gibbs Williams, PhD. 2 More will be added with time as I investigate the explanation of coincidences. So you might want to bookmark this page to return here for updates in the future.
Keep a Diary
Beitman suggests keeping a diary. This will help you with objectivity. Then look for any emerging patterns over time. Step back from the situation and let the free flow of ideas emerge.
According to Beitman, you are the expert and only you can explain the meaning of the coincidences. Though, consulting with a third party may help you with self-reflection.
Four Meanings To Explaining Synchronicity
Beitman recommends looking at the following four meanings to explain meaningful coincidences.
How to analyse coincidences – Use four meanings (Beitman, 2016)
- Emotional Charge
Were you very surprised or felt wonder?
- Parallel Content
Did the two or more elements signifying the same idea or object have a common meaning?
- Explanation
How did it happen? Could it be a shared consciousness?
- Use
Does it have implications for the future? Is it something regarding a decision, a new possibility, course of action?
Interpret Coincidences As Waking Dreams
Then there is the work of psychoanalyst, Gibbs A. Williams,2
Williams considers synchronicities to be waking dreams and so interpretation is similar to that of analyzing dreams.
This means picking out the key elements of the synchronicity and finding an association with each. The connection to the elements lead to the answer to the problem or conflict.
Final Thoughts
This has been brief, but it gives some basis to start your own analysis. I intend doing so in my own understanding of the synchronicities I mentioned in my article on signs of synchronicity. I’ll give updates here as I progress.
References
- Beitman, B. 2016. Connecting With Coincidence – The New Science For Using Synchronicity and Serendipity in Your Life. Health Communications Inc. Florida.
- Williams, Gibbs A. 2010. Demystifying Meaningful Coincidences (Synchronicities): The Evolving Self, the Personal Unconscious, and the Creative Process. Lanham, Md. : Jason Aronson.