Distinguishing between genuine love, obsession, and mere infatuation (liking) can be challenging, as emotions can be complex and sometimes confusing. Here are some signs that what you feel for someone may be more of an obsession or "like" rather than true love:
1. Intensity without depth: Obsession and infatuation often involve intense feelings, but they may lack the depth and emotional connection associated with true love. True love grows and deepens over time as you get to know the person on a more profound level.
2. Idealization and projection: If you're obsessing over someone, you may tend to idealize them, projecting your fantasies and desires onto them rather than seeing them as a real, flawed individual. In true love, you acknowledge the person's strengths and imperfections.
3. Fixation on appearance or superficial traits: Obsession or "liking" may focus heavily on the person's physical appearance or superficial attributes, while true love values the person's character, values, and personality.
4. Possessiveness and jealousy: Feeling overly possessive or jealous of the person, wanting to control their actions or interactions with others, can be a sign of obsession. True love, on the other hand, is built on trust and respect for each other's autonomy.
5. Lack of concern for their well-being: In infatuation or obsession, the focus can be primarily on your own feelings, desires, and needs, without genuinely considering the other person's well-being. True love involves genuine care and concern for the other person's happiness and welfare.
6. An obsessive desire for reciprocation: If you feel the need for constant validation or reciprocation from the other person and become emotionally unstable without it, it may indicate obsession. True love involves a more balanced and secure emotional state.
7. Quick to declare love without truly knowing the person: Infatuation or "liking" can lead to prematurely declaring strong feelings, while true love develops gradually as you get to know the person better over time.
8. A sense of emptiness or anxiety when apart: Obsession can lead to feeling anxious or empty when you're not with the person, whereas true love allows for independent lives while still cherishing time spent together.
9. Ignoring red flags or problematic behavior: When you're obsessed or infatuated, you may overlook or excuse problematic behavior from the other person. True love involves addressing and working through issues together.
10. Short-lived intensity: Obsession and infatuation can burn intensely but may fade quickly. True love has a more enduring quality and can withstand challenges over time.
It's important to remember that love is a complex and multifaceted emotion. Early infatuation or "liking" someone can lead to deeper feelings and genuine love as you develop a stronger connection with them. However, if you notice signs of unhealthy obsession, it's essential to take a step back, reassess your feelings, and seek support from friends, family, or a counselor if needed. Healthy love involves mutual respect, trust, understanding, and emotional support for each other's well-being.