With all the studies on compatibility and attraction one thing is for sure: opposites attract.  Online dating is a pretty interesting phenomenon, and often there is an almost scientific way that these internet dating sites try to determine who you're compatible with.  The fact of the matter is that often the people you don't think you're compatible with might be the right one for you. 

Have you seen those wonderful couples that just seem perfect together?  They just fit together even though they're so different.  It's like half of her qualities make up for half of his qualities and vice versa.  This is something to keep in mind when you're doing online dating.   Just because someone's profile sounds very different than your own and their background is different, doesn't mean that they're not good for you.  Don't make assumptions about your compatibility until you talk to them a little and see for yourself. 

Granted, if the two of you have nothing in common and nothing to talk about, that's probably a pretty good sign that it won't work.  However, if you're from different backgrounds, have differing temperaments and routines, but still have a lot in common and like to do similar things, then it just might work out.  Remember that famous line from Jerry Maguire:  "You complete me"? Well, that is the great thing that happens when opposites attract and fit nicely together. 

Compatibility is an art and not a science.  Always trust your instincts, but also be open to being surprised when you're dating online.  Perhaps someone you never expected makes a great online date.  There is no way of knowing unless you are open to it and give it a try.  When you're online dating, it's not even a bad idea to actively seek out people who have different lives and interests than your own.  There's nothing more exciting than going on a date with someone who can teach you something about what you don't know.  If they come from a different walk of life, then they can show you what their world is like.  It's fun to learn from other people, especially an online date. 

Also, in this diverse age, it's a wonderful idea to actively seek dates that have different nationalities and backgrounds.  It's the 21^st century, and online dating is a wonderful forum for meeting all kinds of people.  You can choose to only date people who are like you, or broaden your horizons and date people who are much different from you.  You can even do a bit of both.  The beauty of online dating is that it allows you to explore what it is you want.  When you're able to experience what's out there, some things work and some don't.  But, in the process of finding what works, you learn a lot about yourself and what you need from a potential mate.  This information in invaluable! So when you're doing online dating, make sure you seek out your opposites as well.