10 signs you’re mistaking infatuation for love
Infatuation can be intense and exciting, but love is deeper and more stable.
Infatuation happens at the beginning of a relationship and is an intense but short-lived passion or admiration for someone.
Love, on the other hand, is deeper, more enduring, and involves a strong commitment and affection towards the other person.
Here are ten signs that what you’re feeling might be infatuation rather than love:
1. It’s all about physical attraction
If your interest in the other person is primarily based on physical appearance and you’re less concerned about getting to know them on a deeper level, it could be infatuation. Love goes beyond physical attributes and includes a profound appreciation for the person’s qualities, flaws, and values.
2. You’re focused on their perfection
Seeing someone as perfect and overlooking their flaws is a sign of infatuation. In love, you acknowledge and accept your partner’s imperfections, understanding that everyone has both strengths and weaknesses.
3. The relationship has a sense of urgency
If you feel a pressing need to spend every moment together or rush into a relationship without truly knowing the other person, it might be infatuation. Love develops more gradually and doesn’t pressure either person into making quick decisions or commitments.
4. Intense but short-lived passion
Infatuation is a high level of passion that burns out quickly. Love, in contrast, may start with a spark but grows and deepens over time, creating a lasting bond.
5. Jealousy and possessiveness
Feeling excessively jealous or possessive, especially early in the relationship, can indicate infatuation. While jealousy can occur in loving relationships, love is more trusting and secure, allowing for independence and growth.
6. Idealisation of the relationship
If you find yourself daydreaming about a perfect future together without acknowledging potential challenges or conflicts, you might be infatuated. Love is realistic and prepares us to face difficulties and work through disagreements.
7. Lack of deep emotional connection
A relationship based on infatuation might lack a deep emotional bond. Love involves a strong connection that includes support, understanding, and sharing personal thoughts and feelings.
8. Your happiness depends entirely on them
If your mood and happiness seem entirely dependent on the other person and the relationship, it’s likely infatuation. Love involves mutual happiness and support but also includes personal independence and self-contentment.
9. The relationship centres around fun and avoids seriousness
Constantly seeking fun times without addressing serious aspects of a relationship or future plans can be a sign of infatuation. Love is willing to delve into both the joyful and challenging parts of life together.
10. You feel insecure and uncertain
Feeling insecure about where you stand or constantly questioning the other person’s feelings toward you might indicate infatuation. Love fosters security, comfort, and a sense of assurance in each other’s feelings.