Determining whether you're experiencing a crush or love can be tricky, but a key difference lies in the longevity and depth of your feelings. According to relationship expert, Irina Firstein, LCSW, feelings associated with love don't fade over time but tend to get "stronger and deeper."
Key Differences: Crush vs. Love
It is crucial to assess the nature of your feelings to differentiate between a crush and love. Here's a breakdown:
| Characteristic | Crush | Love |
|---|---|---|
| Longevity | Often fades over time, especially after initial attraction | Feelings persist and intensify with time, not just initial attraction |
| Intensity | Strong initial attraction, may feel infatuation | Deeper emotional connection and attachment; feelings deepen |
| Focus | Idealized image of the person | Sees the person more realistically, flaws and all |
| Emotional Range | Mostly excitement, nervousness, and fleeting happiness | Includes broader range of emotions: care, empathy, and vulnerability |
Understanding Your Feelings: Practical Insights
To better understand your feelings, consider the following:
- Duration: Have your positive emotions towards this person endured for a considerable time, or are they starting to wane?
- If your feelings are lasting and growing, it could indicate love.
- Depth: Are your feelings based on an idealized image of the person, or do you appreciate them for who they truly are, flaws and all?
- Love appreciates the person holistically.
- Emotional Range: Do your feelings encompass a broader spectrum beyond just excitement, or do they include care and vulnerability?
- Love encompasses more than just excitement.
Conclusion
If your positive emotions don't fade and instead grow stronger over time, according to Irina Firstein, LCSW, it suggests that you are likely experiencing love, not just a crush.
