Once in a while, someone comes along and at first sight we feel a connection. They possess a unique ability to make us feel sensational. Our emotions are so impressed with that person that we want to spend more time with them: they give us the feeling of love— an intimate connection.
We don’t merely find that person attractive. We find that person irresistible! But how do you know if you love someone? This article is here to help you determine the answer!
Furthermore these signs will distinguish if you are falling in love with the person or if you’re simply in the early stages of the relationship.
Recommended Reading: Is it Love or Familiarity?27 Tell Tale Signs You’re Falling in Love
Pay Attention To How They Make You Feel
1. You feel charged and euphoric around them
Love, a complex scientific phenomenon, defies belief. The journey of falling in love engages a symphony of hormones that captivate the heart and manifest in tumultuous emotions. The intoxicating waves of infatuation surge as serotonin floods the system.
Your desire is fueled by libido-boosting sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone that ignite a passionate sexual desire. These enchanting hormones amplify trust, compassion, and other steadfast coping mechanisms, cementing an unbreakable attraction.
2. You feel like moving really fast—or slow
Depending on your attachment style, you can feel like you’re in hyperspeed or in slow motion. New love has the power to propel your emotions to extraordinary heights. Falling in love varies significantly from person to person. The avoidant style will make you feel as if you’re moving slowly, while the preoccupied style will make the relationship feel like it’s going at hyper speed.
3. It hurts when you fight
One of the most painful aspects of being in love is the hurt that comes with fighting with your partner. Arguments and conflicts are inevitable in any long term relationship. They can arise due to differences in opinions, misunderstandings, or simply the clash of two unique individuals. While it is natural for disagreements to occur, it can be incredibly distressing when these conflicts cause emotional pain.
Loving someone means their words, and actions hold significant weight in our hearts. As a result, when a disagreement escalates into a fight, it can feel like a dagger through your chest. The love that once brought you so much joy suddenly becomes a source of anguish and distress.
Recommended Reading: Anger: Owning Yours, Softening Your Partner's4. You feel jealousy at certain moments
When most people find themselves deeply in love, there are bound to be moments when they start feeling jealous. Although often frowned upon, this emotion is quite natural and can even indicate the depth of your emotions.
Jealousy is actually a good sign that you are in love. Jealousy is not about possessiveness or controlling behavior; rather, it stems from the fear of losing something or someone that you hold dear. It is a complex emotion that arises from a deep sense of attachment and vulnerability. (Joy, a relationship therapist from women’s health magazine, tells us not to spend time harping on problems, let those difficult moments be part of your relationship history).
Recommended Reading: Navigating Insecurity In A Relationship5. You experience emotional instability
Real love, the most powerful and enigmatic force in the universe, can transform our lives completely. When we fall head over heels for someone, we might feel a whirlwind of emotions and physiological changes. The brain responsible for this rollercoaster can bring about intense joy and overwhelming despair, leaving us emotionally unstable. These feelings are a good sign that you’re in love.
Recommended Reading: Creating Emotional Boundaries To Thrive In A Relationship6. You feel compassionate love all around
When you’re in love, it’s like wearing love glasses everywhere you go. These magical glasses allow you to see the world through the lens of love, transforming even the most mundane situations into something extraordinary.
Have you ever experienced the joy of engaging in a conversation with an unhappy colleague and suddenly finding yourself filled with an overwhelming sense of pleasure? Or perhaps you’ve encountered a crabby friend, but instead of being affected by their negativity, you’re able to empathize and offer support.
Love has a remarkable power to help us break free from the monotony of life’s daily routines. It allows us to step away from autopilot mode and view everything from a fresh and uplifting perspective. When we’re in love, it feels like we’re floating on cloud nine, and nothing can bring us down.
7. You generally feel happy about the future
Love is a powerful emotion that can transform our lives and outlook on the future. Finding yourself in the blissful state of being in love fills your heart with an overwhelming sense of positivity and hope for what lies ahead.
Being in love awakens a newfound sense of optimism within us. It shifts our perspective, allowing us to see the world through rose-tinted glasses. Suddenly, even the most challenging obstacles appear surmountable, as love provides us with the strength and motivation to overcome any adversity that comes our way.
Notice What You’re Willing To Do For Them
8. You’re willing to put in the effort
When two emerging adults first start dating everything is blissful! Eventually the two people start to spend time together and decide they want more than a platonic love.
After loving someone for a period of time we start to notice these little things that annoy us and trigger negative thoughts. In these instances we get to do some relationship maintenance. We can take care of these little nuances and resolve conflicts peacefully, we demonstrate the power of romantic love.
9. You always make time for them
The best way to tell if you love someone is your willingness to make them a priority. In most cases, you can always find time to send text messages, find time for a date, or make small gestures that let them know you are thinking of them, no matter how “busy” you are. You will also yearn for the same level of attention you give them.
The love for each other creates curiosity about their hobbies or interests. The result is you start planning dates and meetups around their interest. Your schedule and time cause you to overlook your close friends and family members losing them to romantic love.
10. You feel good making sacrifices for them
As we fall in love everyone can see how much you care for your partner. You are willing to go above and beyond doing anything to help them in a difficult situation. Empathy may fuel your need to help them wherever possible.
The hormones in a romantic love will influence your decision-making- creating the urge to do things that can drastically change your life, such as resigning from work or traveling with your romantic partner to another country.
11. You’re full of date ideas
Being in love is a magical experience that fills your heart with joy and excitement. We desire to spend plenty of time together to create as many unforgettable memories together. The best part of being love is that we are willing to try new things offering us a plethora of date ideas that flow effortlessly from your imagination.
When you’re deeply in love, your mind becomes a playground of possibilities. From romantic candlelit dinners to adventurous outdoor activities to even basic chores like grocery shopping, your creativity knows no bounds. Each date idea becomes an opportunity to nurture your connection and grow closer to your partner.
12. Talking to them is easy
One of the most beautiful aspects of being in love is how effortlessly you can talk to your partner. It’s as if a special connection has been forged between you, allowing words to flow freely and naturally. Gone are the days of awkward silences or struggling to find the right things to say.
When you and your partner are together, you find yourselves immersed in deep and meaningful discussions. These conversations go beyond the surface level and delve into a wide range of important subjects. From your dreams and aspirations to your fears and insecurities, nothing is off-limits when it comes to sharing your life with each other.
Opening up about your personal life becomes second nature. You feel comfortable sharing the intricate details of your daily experiences, knowing that your partner genuinely cares and appreciates your openness. Similarly, they reciprocate by revealing their own vulnerabilities and stories, creating an atmosphere of trust and understanding.
Recommended Reading: 71 Questions To Spark Profound Conversations13. You’re making big plans for the future with them
When you’re in love, future plans and possibilities seem endless. It’s remarkable how love can inspire us to envision and plan for a future filled with joy and happiness alongside our beloved partners.
One of the most remarkable things about being in love is the newfound clarity it brings to our lives. Suddenly, our goals and aspirations become intertwined with those of our significant other, creating a beautiful synergy that propels us forward. Together, we build a shared vision of the future, where dreams are transformed into tangible plans.
Notice If You Only Have Eyes For Them
14. You enjoy more than their physical appearance
There’s a good chance that you’re falling in love is your attraction extends far beyond surface-level attraction and encapsulates the whole person. It involves a deeper connection, a deep understanding, and a genuine appreciation of the person you have this powerful bond with. While physical attraction may initially captivate our attention, true love is built on intangible qualities that make a romantic relationship truly fulfilling and enduring.
15. You’re ignoring other attractive people
Love has a remarkable ability to consume our thoughts, emotions, and attention. When we find ourselves deeply in love with someone, it’s almost as if they become our sole focus. In this state, other attractive people may fade into the background, barely registering on our radar.
It’s fascinating how love can create a tunnel vision effect, causing us to ignore the presence of other attractive individuals. Our romantic attraction towards our partner becomes all-encompassing, making it difficult for anyone else to capture our attention in the same way. It’s not that we find others unattractive, but rather that our focus is so firmly fixed on our beloved that we simply don’t notice them in the same way.
This phenomenon is often referred to as “love’s blinders” – a term that aptly describes how our perception narrows when we are deeply in love. It’s as if we have a filter that selectively redirects our attention solely toward our partner, resulting in a heightened sense of exclusivity and devotion. (Source: Family therapist expert, Canary- Author of proximate and ultimate perspectives on romantic love)
16. You even find their quirks attractive
One of the remarkable aspects of a strong connection with someone is the ability to find their quirks attractive. These idiosyncrasies, unique to each individual, are often seen as endearing rather than off-putting. It is a testament to the depth of the bond shared between two people.
When you truly appreciate someone, their quirks become a part of what makes them special and lovable. These peculiarities can range from how they laugh infectiously to their peculiar taste in music or style. While others may find these quirks odd or annoying, you see them as charming and captivating.
17. You’re disinterested in other people
When you fall in love, you concentrate your time on your interests. You’ll likely have difficulty dating someone else – people you have previously longed to have aren’t necessary. Maybe this could be romantic love.
18. You can’t wait to see them again — even when they’ve just left
Even after you spend the whole day with someone else, your feelings of loneliness remain. Chances are you are already planning your next hangout, even if you just left each other. It is common for a lover.
While spending time apart is definitely a good idea, especially in those early stages (spending time apart will be good for relationship maintenance, think of this as a health and wellness space for both of you), this does not mean that you enjoy it. If you’re unable to stop thinking about them when you’ve separated, it’s a key sign you may be in falling in love.
Notice How They Effect You
19. They make you feel better about yourself
Love has an incredible power to uplift and enhance our self-perception. When you are fortunate enough to experience love, it has the ability to make you feel better about yourself in countless ways. It is a transformative force that can propel you toward personal growth and self-improvement.
Validation, Acceptance, Encouragement, and Support
When someone loves you, they understand and value your inner self embracing both your strengths and weaknesses. This acknowledgment creates a sense of belonging and reassurance, reminding you that you are worthy and deserving of love.
The love and support received from a partner or loved one can be a powerful catalyst for self-improvement. When you are in love, you often find yourself surrounded by someone who believes in you and encourages you to reach your full potential.
They become your biggest cheerleader, celebrating your victories and providing a shoulder to lean on during challenging times. This unwavering support can fuel your confidence, enabling you to take risks and pursue your dreams with renewed purpose.
20. They inspire you to be better
The love and admiration you receive from someone special can inspire you to become the best version of yourself. When you are falling in love, you may want to improve various aspects of your life – be it your physical well-being, career, or personal relationships.
Knowing that you have someone who believes in your potential can ignite a sense of motivation within you. You strive to become the person they see in you, constantly pushing yourself to surpass your expectations and achieve your goals.
21. They’re always in your thoughts
When we fall in love with that special someone they start to consume every thought, it signifies their immense impact on your life. Their presence in your mind is a testament to your profound connection. They are the first person you think about when you wake up and the last thing you think about when you fall to sleep.
Thoughts wield extraordinary power, acting as mirrors of our emotions and priorities. When someone constantly occupies your mind, they hold an extraordinary place in your heart and thoughts. They become the very essence that lingers through the most mundane moments of your day.
This persistent preoccupation surpasses fleeting infatuations and superficial attractions. It symbolizes a profound emotional bond and an authentic attachment. Their thoughts penetrate your consciousness, shaping your choices, actions, and overall perspective on life.
Furthermore, when someone incessantly resides in your thoughts, it exemplifies their integral role within your support system. You rely on them for emotional guidance, solace, and empathy. Their existence in your mind provides an undeniable sense of security and reassurance.
22. You don’t feel the need to hold back your opinions
When we fall in love, we find solace in our partner’s arms and feel safe. This sense of security allows you to freely express your opinions, knowing they will be heard and respected, even if disagreements occur.
This healthy love has the power to create an environment where being genuine to oneself becomes effortless. Amid love’s bliss, there is a natural inclination to be open and honest; the fear of judgment or rejection diminishes when love prevails, fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding.
Notice If You Place An Emphasis On Them
23. You want to learn about their interests
Imagine never having tried XYZ before, with no interest whatsoever. But then, out of the blue, your romantic partner reveals their fondness for it, and something changes inside you. A spark is ignited, and now you feel an undeniable urge to try it.
24. You crave them
When you find yourself deeply falling in love, an overwhelming craving for their company engulfs your being, becoming an integral part of your daily existence.
In the throes of love, your heart yearns for their touch, their voice, and their mere presence. You can’t stop smiling at the mere thought of them. Every moment spent away from them feels like an eternity as if time slows down just to amplify your longing. The desire to be in their arms, to laugh at their bad jokes and to bask in the warmth of their affection becomes an incessant ache that cannot be ignored.
25. You’re dying to know if they love you, too
When pondering if someone misses you, pay attention to the signs. Their contact and willingness to accompany you can cause your stomach to flutter and your heart to leap.
Notice How Their Touch Makes You Feel
26. You have fantastic sex
Love can transcend physical intimacy in romantic relationships. The absence of it can even ignite a deeper emotional connection, intensifying the desire for your romantic partner. However, the surge of hormones will heighten your passion for the person igniting an intense satisfaction in sexual intimacy.
27. You crave physical intimacy
When you find yourself falling in love with someone, it is natural to experience a strong desire for physical intimacy. This longing for closeness and connection is an essential element of human relationships and significantly strengthens the bond between two individuals.
The craving for a physical connection in love encompasses a wide range of experiences, from holding hands and hugging to passionate kisses and moments of shared vulnerability.
Physical intimacy holds immense power to communicate love, trust, and affection. It allows couples to express their deepest emotions and desires without needing words. Through touch, we can convey comfort, support, and reassurance, fostering a sense of security and closeness that words alone cannot achieve.
Conclusion
While it can be hard to distinguish whether it’s a crush, romantic love, infatuation, or platonic love, there are some key differences. With a crush or infatuation, the person typically does not invade our thoughts; it feels more like a cute idea.
Of course, when it comes to platonic love, things are straightforward as your love involves deep care but stops there. There are no long term plans for the future. Here is a way to know if it is simply platonic love: when was the last time you canceled plans with this person?
If you cancel plans, chances are you are either in love with someone else or you have someone/ something that is more of a priority; either way, both indicate you are not in love.
Meanwhile, romantic love involves that spark at first sight. When you made eye contact, your heart started pounding a bit faster. Eventually, we feel ready to ask them out, and before we know it, we have stripped off the need to pretend to be someone else and start revealing our true self, hoping they love us. Once you start sharing these fears, thoughts, and desires, you know that you’re falling in love!
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