Is It Love or Lust? Decoding Your Feelings

We’ve all been there—swept up in the intoxicating rush of attraction, heart racing, hands shaking, mind spinning. The chemistry is undeniable, the passion electric. But is it the real thing, or just a fleeting moment of desire? Love and lust can feel eerily similar in the beginning, making it hard to distinguish between the two. But understanding the difference is crucial, especially if you want something meaningful and lasting.

Lust is driven by physical attraction and chemistry. It’s what makes your pulse quicken when you see them, what draws you into late-night conversations that are more flirtatious than deep. Lust is intoxicating—the fireworks, the butterflies, the thrill of the chase. But here’s the thing: lust is surface-level. It thrives on mystery, physical touch, and fantasy rather than emotional depth.

Signs It’s Lust, Not Love:

• You're drawn to their physical appearance more than their personality.

• The connection feels primarily sexual or flirtatious.

• Conversations stay light—deep topics are avoided.

• You focus on the present excitement, not the future.

• When they're not around, you don’t miss them meaningfully.

  
  

Lust isn’t bad—it’s natural and can be a great foundation for love. But if it never deepens beyond the physical, it’s likely not meant to last.

Love is what happens when the high of attraction settles into something steady, comforting, and honest. It’s when you feel safe being vulnerable when you’re just as attracted to their mind as you are to their body. Love is effort—choosing the person even when the initial spark isn’t as intense when life gets messy, and when challenges arise.

Signs It’s Love, Not Just Lust:

• You care deeply about their happiness, even outside of your relationship.

• You can be your true, unfiltered self around them.

• Your conversations go beyond surface level and include dreams, fears, and values.

• You see a future together and are willing to work through challenges.

• You miss them for who they are, not just their presence.

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Love requires patience, trust, and emotional intimacy. It’s not just about wanting someone—it’s about choosing them, day after day.

Can it be both? Absolutely! The best relationships balance love and lust. Passion keeps things exciting, while emotional connection provides stability. The key is recognizing where your relationship currently stands and whether it has the potential to grow into something more profound.

So, Ask Yourself:

• If the passion faded, would I still want to be with this person?

• Do I feel safe, valued, and emotionally connected?

• Are we building something or just enjoying the moment?

  
  

Love and lust can overlap, but only one will stand the test of time. The challenge is knowing which one you’re feeling—and making sure it aligns with what you truly want.

What do you think—have you ever mistaken lust for love? Or both? Let's Dish!