I never understood why some people only seek friends or partners who have shared interests. Sure, it's an added bonus but for it to be a requirement for someone to have a fulfilling connection is such an odd concept to me.

Like, of course. It's great if you do get to share interests but it should not hold much bearing to the strength of your connection.

What you actually do need to share are your values and beliefs above all else. I can only form strong bonds with those who truly share the same values as I do and struggle, to my own detriment, with those who do not.

Personally, I love people who have their own unique interests because it is so charming to me and it motivates me with a lot of curiosity to learn about them. Maybe I just like novel things.