Distinguishing between loving someone for who they are and loving the way they make you feel can be a complex task, as emotions can be multi-faceted and interconnected. However, there are some key considerations that can help you better understand your feelings:
Emotional connection: True love involves a deep emotional connection with the person, not just the positive emotions they evoke in you. It goes beyond surface-level attraction or temporary feelings of happiness. You genuinely care for their well-being, happiness, and fulfillment.
Empathy and understanding: Love is about empathizing with the other person's joys and sorrows, understanding their perspectives, and being supportive of their aspirations and struggles.
Unconditional love: When you truly love someone, you accept them for who they are, including their imperfections and flaws. You don't just love them for what they do for you or how they make you feel good about yourself.
Long-term commitment: Love often involves a desire for a lasting relationship with the person. It's not just about enjoying the present moment but also envisioning a future together and being willing to put effort into building that future.
Selflessness: True love involves a degree of selflessness, where you prioritize the other person's needs and happiness alongside your own.
Feeling a connection even in challenging times: Love is tested in difficult moments. If your feelings remain strong even during tough times, it's a sign that your love goes beyond just the way they make you feel.
Respect and admiration: Love is intertwined with respect and admiration for the other person's values, character, and qualities.
Desire for their growth and well-being: You genuinely want the best for them and support their personal growth and development.
Emotional intimacy: Love often involves a deep emotional intimacy, where you feel comfortable being vulnerable and sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings with the other person.
It's essential to be honest with yourself about your feelings and motivations. If you find that your feelings are primarily based on how the person makes you feel without considering their well-being and without an emotional connection to their core being, it may be more infatuation or attraction than true love.
However, it's worth noting that relationships can have different stages, and initial feelings of attraction and excitement are normal. As a relationship develops, deeper emotional connections can form, leading to more profound and genuine love.
Remember, love is a complex and evolving emotion, and it's okay to take the time to understand and explore your feelings. If you have doubts or concerns about your emotions, open communication with your partner can help both of you better understand your relationship.