​Love vs. Infatuation: Is It Real or Just a Crush?

By Emma

​Have you ever met someone new and suddenly your heart starts beating fast? You cannot stop thinking about them, and you feel like they are absolutely perfect.
​This feeling is very strong, but is it love, or is it just infatuation?
​While they feel similar at the start, they are actually very different.

What is infatuation? 
​Infatuation is what most people call a "crush" or "puppy love." It happens very fast, sometimes the very first time you see someone.
​When you are infatuated, your brain is filled with happy chemicals. You see the other person as a perfect superhero who can do no wrong. If they have bad habits, you ignore them because you are blinded by the excitement.

​The Problem: Infatuation is like a campfire. It burns very hot and bright, but it runs out of wood and goes cold quickly. It usually lasts only a few weeks or months.

​What is  Love? 
​True love takes time to grow. You cannot love someone the moment you meet him, because love requires you to truly know the person.
​Love means you see the other person's flaws, maybe they are messy, or they get grumpy when they are tired and you still want to be with them. Love is not just a feeling; it is a choice to care for someone every day, even when things are boring or difficult.

​The Benefit: Love is like a strong house. It might not look as exciting as a big fire, but it keeps you safe, warm, and happy for many years

​Quick Ways to Tell the Difference
​Here is an easy checklist to see which one you are feeling:
​Speed: Infatuation happens in a single day. Love takes months or years to build.
​Focus: Infatuation focuses on looks and fantasy. Love focuses on friendship, trust, and reality.
​Feelings: Infatuation makes you feel nervous, anxious, and jealous. Love makes you feel safe, calm, and peaceful.
​Flaws: Infatuation thinks the person is perfect. Love knows the person isn't perfect, but loves them anyway.

​Summary
​Infatuation is the fun, wild ride at the beginning of a relationship. It is not bad! Most love stories start with infatuation.
​But remember, the wild feelings will always fade a little bit over time. When the excitement calms down, that is when true, deep love has the chance to grow.