The feeling of being in love is indescribable, yet there are distinct signs that define it. With the help of experiences and experts, we’ll show you what this marvelous yet sometimes tormenting emotion entails.
General Signs of Being in Love
Being in love typically refers to the intense emotions that take over at the start of a relationship. These include:
- Admiration
- Happiness
- Excitement and nervousness
- Sexual attraction and desire
Let’s take a closer look at how these feelings manifest in practice.
Love Makes You Feel Energized and Euphoric
Although it may not seem like it, love is a scientific process. Falling in love triggers a surge of hormones that can amplify your feelings and cause dramatic mood swings.
When you’re near your loved one, increased levels of dopamine and norepinephrine result in feelings of:
- Joy
- Dizziness
- Nervous excitement
- Euphoria
Meanwhile, lower serotonin levels can fuel your feelings of infatuation.
Sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen also play a role by enhancing libido and driving feelings of desire. Other hormones, such as oxytocin and vasopressin, strengthen attraction by promoting trust, empathy, and long-term bonding.
You Want to See Them Again and Again
Even after spending the whole day with your partner, you feel lonely as soon as they leave. You wonder what they’re doing and if they’re thinking about you. You may already have plans to meet the next day, yet you find yourself questioning how you’ll endure until you see them again.
This longing is common when you’re in love. While spending some time apart is healthy, it doesn’t mean you enjoy it.
If you can’t stop thinking about them when you’re not together, you’re likely savoring the bittersweet joy of being in love.
Everything Feels Exciting and Fresh
Love can transform your perspective. Even mundane activities like grocery shopping become more enjoyable.
You might also start seeing other aspects of life in a new light. Many people in love are more willing to try new things or show interest in activities they previously overlooked, simply because their partner enjoys them.
Trying new things is not only okay but can also be enriching. However, your partner’s preferences shouldn’t pressure you into doing things you genuinely dislike.
You Don’t Mind Making Sacrifices
In the initial stages of love, you may feel completely devoted to your partner and eager to do whatever it takes to support them through tough times or make their life easier.
Your growing empathy and attachment often fuel this desire to be there for them and help in any way possible. However, the hormones associated with love can sometimes cloud your judgment.
If you feel inclined to make major changes, such as quitting your job or moving abroad for your partner, take some time to think it through.
After reflecting, you may still decide to make the sacrifice, but ensure it’s a choice you genuinely want for yourself as well.
Sacrifices are part of any loving relationship. In fact, partners who work to meet each other’s needs often form stronger bonds. However, people in love sometimes impulsively leap to help without much thought.
Sex Feels Amazing With Them
Sex isn’t necessarily part of every romantic relationship. However, when it is, it can play a significant role in falling in love.
The intensity of love-related hormones influences sexual desire, heightens your longing for your partner, and intensifies the passion experienced during intimacy.
Early in love, sex can help foster closeness with your partner. Great sexual chemistry can make sex more enjoyable and deepen your desire for one another. Exploring each other’s sexual interests can also bring joy and strengthen your connection.
Source: 15 Things About Being in Love vs. Loving Someone (healthline.com)
