Picture this: You’ve just met someone new, and you can’t stop thinking about them. Every text they send sends your heart racing, every shared moment feels like it’s straight out of a movie, and you’re left constantly daydreaming about what the future might hold. It’s a feeling we’ve all experienced at some point in our lives – infatuation.
But how do you know if it’s truly love or just the initial rush of infatuation? While infatuation might feel like love, it’s important to recognize the differences between the two.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into 10 common infatuation symptoms you need to know. By understanding these symptoms, you’ll be able to better recognize if you’re experiencing infatuation or true love.
1. The Intense Desire to Be Around the Person
When you’re infatuated, you can’t get enough of the person you’re attracted to. You constantly find yourself wanting to be in their presence, even if it’s just for a few moments.
You may go out of your way to attend events or gatherings where you know they’ll be present, just to catch a glimpse of them.
2. Constantly Thinking About the Person
One of the most common symptoms of infatuation is the constant presence of the person in your thoughts.
They occupy your mind throughout the day, and you find yourself daydreaming about them. Whether you’re at work, doing chores, or trying to sleep, thoughts of them keep popping up.
If you need extra support and tools from a licensed therapist, I recommend MMS's sponsor, BetterHelp, an online therapy platform that is both flexible and affordable. Get started today and take 10% off of your first month of therapy.
3. Heightened Sensitivity to Their Actions and Words
When you’re infatuated, you become hyper-aware of the person’s every action and word. You analyze their gestures, facial expressions, and even the tone of their voice.
You try to read between the lines, searching for hidden meanings in their interactions with you.
4. Idealizing the Person
Infatuation often involves putting the person on a pedestal and idealizing them. You see them as flawless, without any faults or imperfections.
You may overlook their shortcomings and only focus on their positive qualities. This idealized image can cloud your judgment and prevent you from seeing them realistically.
5. Feeling a Strong Sense of Attraction and Chemistry
Infatuation is characterized by a strong physical and emotional attraction to the person. You feel drawn to them in ways that are hard to explain.
There is a magnetic pull that makes you feel connected on a deep level. The chemistry between you is undeniable, and it fuels your infatuation.
6. Experiencing Mood Swings
Infatuation can be an emotional roller coaster. You may experience extreme highs when things are going well with the person and crushing lows when they’re not. Your mood can shift rapidly depending on the interactions you have with them or even their mere presence.
7. Neglecting Other Areas of Life
When infatuated, it’s common to prioritize the person over other aspects of your life. You may neglect your hobbies, friendships, and even work or studies.
Your focus becomes solely centered around the person, and everything else takes a backseat.
8. Feeling Jealous and Possessive
Infatuation can evoke strong feelings of jealousy and possessiveness. You may become overly protective of the person and feel threatened by anyone who comes close to them.
Even their interactions with others can trigger feelings of insecurity and possessiveness.
9. Overanalyzing Every Interaction
Every conversation, text message, or interaction with the person becomes a subject of intense scrutiny. You find yourself dissecting every word, looking for hidden meanings or signs of reciprocation.
This overanalysis can consume a significant amount of your time and mental energy.
10. Neglecting Red Flags
Infatuation can blind you to red flags and warning signs. You may overlook behaviors or traits that would normally raise concerns. Your infatuation overrides your ability to see potential issues, and you may dismiss any doubts or concerns that arise.
Final Note
Infatuation is a powerful emotion that can sweep us off our feet. It’s important to recognize the symptoms of infatuation and differentiate them from genuine love. By understanding the signs and being aware of our emotions, we can navigate these intense feelings with clarity and self-awareness.
Remember, infatuation is just a stage, and it’s essential to maintain a balanced perspective on the person and our own well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can infatuation turn into love?
A: Infatuation can evolve into love over time, but it’s important to distinguish between the two. Infatuation is more superficial and based on intense attraction, while love involves a deeper connection and genuine care for the other person.
Q: How long does infatuation typically last?
A: The duration of infatuation varies from person to person. It can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. In some cases, infatuation may fade away on its own, while in others, it can transition into a more stable and lasting love.
Q: Is infatuation one-sided?
A: Infatuation can be one-sided, where only one person has intense feelings for the other. However, it can also be mutual, with both individuals experiencing infatuation towards each other.
Q: Can infatuation be harmful?
A: While infatuation can be exciting and exhilarating, it can also be emotionally exhausting and distracting. It can lead to poor decision-making and neglect of other important aspects of life. It’s important to maintain a balance and not let infatuation take over your life completely.
Q: How can I overcome infatuation?
A: Overcoming infatuation can be challenging, but it’s possible with time and self-reflection. Focus on building a realistic perception of the person, engage in self-care activities, and redirect your energy towards other areas of your life.
Q: What’s the difference between infatuation and a crush?
A: Infatuation and a crush are often used interchangeably, but there can be slight differences. Infatuation typically refers to an intense and short-lived attraction, whereas a crush can be a more prolonged and ongoing interest in someone.