If you love someone, it’s important to let them know. However, saying those magical three words can be difficult, especially if you’re unsure how they feel. Some experts believe it’s best to say “I love you” only after you’ve experienced certain signs, but that can be confusing for some people.
For example, some people are able to tell when their partner is truly in love with them because they feel a strong bond of loyalty and companionship that goes beyond sexual gratification. Others may experience feelings of emotional attachment that are not as intense, but still very real and mutually satisfying. It’s also important to be able to communicate openly and respectfully in order to avoid miscommunication or hurt feelings.
According to psychologist Barbara Santini, Sex and Relationship Adviser at Dimepiece LA, “The golden time to say those magical words is going to vary from person to person and of course, from one relationship to the next. Some may need a short amount of time to feel comfortable enough while others will need several months or even a year to get there.”
The psychological perspective on love differs from the biological model, which considers it a biological drive similar to hunger or thirst. It can be triggered by hormones, such as oxytocin, and neurotrophins like NGF. Love has also been described as a combination of companionate and passionate love. Some people can have a hard time admitting that they are in love with someone because they are afraid of being hurt or rejected.
When you love someone, you want to spend a lot of time with them and miss them when they are not around. It is also important to respect their independence and give them space if needed. This can include a need for their friends and family, as well as their work or other hobbies. The love you have for them is lasting and not a fleeting feeling of infatuation or desire.
Some examples of true love are kama, which is a commitment to a long-term relationship with shared goals and aspirations; prema, which is a love of God or higher being; karuna, the love of compassion and mercy that drives you to alleviate suffering; and bhakti, which is the love of devotion and service. The goal of loving someone is to help them grow, so it’s important to remember that love is not a destination, but a journey that can be difficult at times.
If you’re not sure how to respond to your loved one when they say the magic words, try using this free online quiz to find out if their love is authentic. It can also help you determine if the love they have for you is compatible with your own. For example, if they say they love you, but you don’t reciprocate that feeling, it’s important to discuss this respectfully so everyone is on the same page. If you’re not ready to make a permanent commitment, you can still let them know you care about them and that you value their friendship.
