In general, love means caring for someone deeply because you choose to—there’s no obligation for you to feel that way. You just do. At the end of the day, love is a very personal experience. It doesn’t always look or feel the same for everyone (and that’s okay). [2] X Research source
Being together 24/7 isn’t love—it’s attachment. In a loving relationship, you both know that spending time apart is healthy and you’re okay with that. Consent is always a part of a loving relationship. If you love someone, you would never pressure them to do something they don’t want to do. [4] X Research source
Real connection means that you and your partner’s needs are equally important and you can easily communicate them. [6] X Research source
Feeling secure enough to let your guard down around your partner creates a sense of belonging. You feel at home and safe with them.
Love is always mutually supportive—it’s never one-sided. The same amount of support is there for both of you, even when the chips are down.
Building trust takes time; it doesn’t happen overnight. If you’re in a new relationship, trust will grow as you get to know each other more.
Unconditional love also means that you don’t expect anything in return for your love—it’s freely given. Your relationship isn’t transactional.
Once a conflict is over, it’s over. You can let it go. You don’t hold onto resentment if you love someone.
Being “in love” and “loving someone” are different experiences. Falling in love is something that happens to you. It’s a beautiful experience, but it’s also an unconscious act. That said, it opens the door to real love and sets the stage for a long-lasting commitment.
