There’s no doubt that love is an intense experience. It can be exciting, scary, and even painful. It can also be rewarding.
But what exactly does it mean to say, “I love you?” Love isn’t just an emotion, it’s a feeling that can be triggered by a variety of different things, including sexual stimulation, social interactions, and physical sensations.
In fact, scientists believe that love is a complex biological cascade of hormones and feedback pathways in the brain. However, it is also a social and psychological connection and bond that creates a sense of security and trust.
So, while some people may disagree on what love is, most experts agree that it’s an incredibly important aspect of life. But, how can you know when to say those magic three words? According to psychosexual and relationship therapist Sarah Calvert, there are several signs that can indicate that you’re in love.
1. You’re putting each other before your own interests.
Happy couples prioritize spiritual and non-materialistic values. They aren’t concerned about keeping up with the Joneses, nabbing a prestigious job or home, or hitting a certain financial plateau. Instead, they place a high value on family, friends, laughing, having fun, and enjoying their lives together. They’re also able to get sufficient sleep, which research has shown that is necessary for a healthy body and mind.
2. You’re always thinking about them.
While some people can enjoy a good distraction, others find that their thoughts turn to the person they’re in love with all the time. This is a sign that you’re truly in love. 3. You’re willing to sacrifice yourself for them.
Regardless of whether you’re in a new or established relationship, it’s important to know when to say those three magical words. Psychologist, sex and relationship advisor at Dimepiece LA Barbara Santini says that while men tend to be quicker to say those words, it can take some women much longer to feel comfortable saying them. Some women even claim they need to wait a year to express their feelings.
Ultimately, it’s important to be honest with yourself about how you feel and to recognize that you can’t control your feelings. But, you can practice regulating them using techniques like situation selection (avoiding or seeking out situations based on how they make you feel), expression suppression, and cognitive reappraisal. Practicing these strategies can help you manage your emotions so that you don’t become disappointed if your partner doesn’t reciprocate your love immediately. However, if you do find yourself feeling frustrated or depressed, remember that it’s normal and that you can work through it with professional help. For more information, check out our article on how to deal with depression and low self-esteem. It’s not easy to live a happy, fulfilling life, but with the right support system it can be possible. And don’t forget to show your loved ones how much you care by making them a priority in your life.
