What is the difference between attraction and love? It’s easy to get confused, as the line between the two can often seem thin. In this article, we reveal the signs that will help you determine precisely which one you’re experiencing.
Attraction or Love?
Feeling connected to someone doesn’t necessarily mean you’re in love with them. Often, this confusion arises because the distinction between attraction and love is not clear. Here’s how you can identify the difference:
#1. Self-Esteem vs. Happiness
When you’re attracted to someone, you want them to be with you, but only until you “have” them. Once you’ve achieved this, the allure often fades. In such cases, it’s about your self-esteem rather than a genuine connection.
On the other hand, when you’re in love, you want the person to be with you—and happy. It’s not just about your happiness anymore. You deeply desire them to be a wholehearted part of your life.
#2. Possessiveness vs. Selfless Giving
Attraction often comes with possessive behavior. This stems from a mix of desire, satisfaction, jealousy, a need for control, and fear of losing the other person.
True love, however, expects nothing in return. It’s all about giving—whether it’s love, care, or sacrifices—with the focus firmly on your partner’s happiness.
#3. Winning vs. Sacrificing
Unlike true love, attraction can be dangerous. When you’re attracted to someone, your sole focus is to “win” that person over and keep them close—sometimes regardless of what they want.
In love, you’re willing to let them go if necessary, allowing destiny to take its course. There’s no undue pressure placed on them.
#4. Selfishness vs. Selflessness
When you love someone, everything becomes about them. For the first time, you might prioritize someone else’s needs over your own.
With attraction, however, the focus is always on your own happiness.
#5. Permanent Hatred vs. Temporary Frustration
Love is transformative and can make you a better person. Yet, there’s another truth: love can turn into hatred when things fall apart. After a breakup, love may transform into inexplicable resentment or animosity.
In the case of attraction, breakups don’t provoke such intense feelings. You may feel temporary sadness, anxiety, or irritation, but not hatred.
+1. Limits vs. Limitlessness
Finally, another key difference between attraction and love is their duration. Love is timeless—it doesn’t fade or disappear over time. Attraction, however, is often short-lived and has an expiration date.
Source: Love is more than a feeling of affection and attraction – It is an energy source (indiatimes.com)
