Discovering What Differentiates Love from Passion
Passion and love are two powerful feelings, but we already know that … And however related, they are entirely separate, and it is in this part that the confusion begins!
Things that Differentiate Love from Passion
Can you identify what passion and love characterize? Psychologists, philosophers, and even neurologists are dedicated to studying these feelings and on delimiting the differences between each one.
In order not to err when it comes to self-declaration, recognize that what you feel is love or passion!
The Attracting Factors
Psychology defines passion as the manifestation of the phenomenon of projection, that is when the person projects his idealizations on the partner.
That is to say, when we are in love, we are drawn to the idealization of our partners, and not necessarily real or coherent to the person they may be.
Typically, when we are in love, the characteristics that attract us most are the physical ones, be it the beautiful eyes, the lips, the soft skin or the smile, for instance.
But when we are genuinely in love, we can see beyond appearances, we start to identify the so-called “inner beauty” of the person, that is, their values, their authenticity, and personality turn out to be as or more exciting and attractive than a beautiful smile.
Illusions also tend to disappear with love. People who love each other can truly identify their partner’s qualities and shortcomings, and even with their fights, they choose to deal with adversity despite difficulties for an ordinary shared life of two.
Passion: When does it start and when does it end?
Several authors describe passion as an “overwhelming feeling” and, and just like a great storm, often do much damage, but inevitably Passion ends up coming to an end.
Some studies on human behavior say that passion can last for a few weeks or years (1 to 2 years, on average). After this period, two things can happen The end of the relationship or the beginning of a real love story.
Unlike passion, love does not happen at first sight. This feeling is quite broad and complex, requiring an extended period of time for it to develop fully.
Only fools who think that love is guaranteed forever and ever. Yes, loves can come to an end! But to avoid happening, the couple should strive to respect, care and be sincere with each other, always.
“The perfect weekend.”
In other words: what is the perfect dating situation for you and your partner?
As passion is a more intense phase, there is a need to “live intensely” the relationship, so it is common for passionate couples want to be always in each other’s company, whether at a romantic dinner overlooking the sea or lying on the sofa and binging any series on Netflix!
How do you cope with times of crisis?
Some authors consider passion as the “honeymoon phase” of the relationship, where “adjusting” fights are not yet as constant. And when that happens, it might be an excellent opportunity for you to reflect on your true feelings towards your partner.
Fights exist even among people who love each other, the difference between moments of crisis in passion and love is the way we deal with situations.
Love is made of exchanges and consensuses. We may even get angry and want to get away, but when we fight with who we truly love, the desire to put an end on disagreements becomes a priority. In these moments it is important that both are open to understanding not only who they are as individuals, but also the partner’s feelings and points of view.
Dialogue and understanding are two important ingredients in any successful love relationship!
What is most important in the relationship?
If the first thing you think about when you reflect on your relationship is the beautiful “physical” chemistry you have, then it is likely that real love has not yet knocked on your door.
Do not misunderstand, this kind of intimate contact is essential in any love relationship, but in love, sex is far from being the most important thing. When we love we want the guarantee of the happiness of the loved one, and the desire to care for and help the partner to achieve their dreams and daring goals.
The most important thing in love is just this: to share and to guarantee the happiness of those you love! Remembering that this feeling needs to be mutual so that the relationship is maintained, and cherished.
And finally, to love is also to know and when how to say goodbye.
Oh, and let’s not forget that love can go much further than the traditional “romantic love,” okay? Love has many forms and manifestations.
You will also enjoy Soulmates 101 and Conscious Love and Soul Maturity
About the Author
Ascending Hearts is a dating site for those who have embraced a conscious lifestyle. Connect with your Soulmate at AscendingHearts.com
