When it comes to matters of the heart, it can be difficult to determine if someone truly loves you. However, there are certain signs that can help you gauge their feelings towards you. Here are a few key indicators to look out for:
Consistent Communication
But giving yourself enough time (aka, at least a couple months) is essential to seeing how things unfold. “Eye contact is an intimate and vulnerable act and can be very meaningful,” says Fraley. “Deep eye contact, or holding your gaze for at least four seconds, may indicate feelings of love.” Bonus points if they smile in your presence, too. “When we’re in love, we almost cannot help but smile around our love interest,” Bady says. Generally speaking, infatuation doesn’t bode well for long-lasting relationships—think of a bright flame that burns hot, but burns out quickly. Because when the object of our infatuation inevitably does something that pops the bubble of perfection in which we’ve placed them, the violation of our unrealistic expectations hits us hard.
One of the most telling signs that someone loves you is consistent communication. If they make an effort to stay in touch with you regularly, whether it’s through texts, calls, or in-person visits, it shows that you are always on their mind.
Acts of Kindness
Everyone has some private feelings, and there’s nothing wrong with keeping these to yourself. Someone who loves you will accept your individual ideas and feelings as part of who you are. They might engage in some respectful debate, but they’ll show interest in your perspective instead of insisting you take their side. Bon Jovi sings of a lover that got away, but his love for her remains the same even though she’s moved on to another man.
Instead of doubting yourself and the relationship, you will feel secure and desired. If you don’t feel this way, or if he seems to enjoy keeping you guessing, it’s time to move on to better things. He’ll demonstrate this feeling by letting you know you’re missed. It could be an enthusiastic kiss as soon as you walk in the door, or a “missing you” text. Instead of letting days go by without communication, he’ll take an active role in the relationship.
Spending time with someone you truly care about is always fun. But if it’s doing something they might not necessarily enjoy doing if it weren’t for your suggestion, pay attention. And they will be right there encouraging you to chase them every step of the way. We see someone we view as a potential threat to our relationship with the person we love and are struck by the fear of losing them.
Another way to know if someone loves you is through their actions. If they go out of their way to do things for you, such as cooking your favorite meal, running errands for you, or surprising you with thoughtful gifts, it’s a clear indication of their affection towards you.
Finding a partner with whom to share your life can be a hopeful, difficult, invigorating, and challenging process. To find someone you’ll be comfortable with for the rest of your life, though, it may be necessary to go far outside your comfort zone. Even activities that might normally be considered “boring,” like chores or grocery shopping can turn into an adventure with your love. If you notice that any time you spend with your special someone turns out to be fun and memorable, there’s a pretty good chance it’s love. A big sign someone loves you is when they absolutely cannot stand to see you upset. Whether they’re the cause of your hurt feelings or not, they’ll go out of their way to make you feel better.
Does she respect your personal space and boundaries, understanding when you need time alone or when certain topics are sensitive for you? Respect for personal boundaries is a cornerstone of any healthy, loving relationship. Future planning is psychologically tied to the concept of “relationship interdependence,” meaning both parties see the relationship as a long-term commitment. When she’s openly discussing and planning a future with you, it suggests she’s envisioning a lasting relationship.
Respect and Support
A person who truly loves you will always respect your opinions, feelings, and boundaries. They will support you in your endeavors, listen to you without judgment, and provide a safe space for you to express yourself freely.
Making Sacrifices
Love often involves sacrifices, and someone who loves you will be willing to make compromises for the sake of your happiness. Whether it’s giving up something they want for your benefit or making adjustments to accommodate your needs, their willingness to put your well-being first is a strong indicator of their love for you.
Emotional Intimacy
Lastly, emotional intimacy is a crucial aspect of a loving relationship. If someone opens up to you about their deepest thoughts, fears, and dreams, and trusts you enough to be vulnerable with you, it shows that they have genuine feelings for you.
Overall, while there is no foolproof way to know if someone truly loves you, paying attention to these signs can give you a better understanding of their feelings towards you. Trust your instincts and communicate openly with your partner to ensure a healthy and loving relationship.
