Studies show that humans use their intuitive skills to evaluate a suitable partner quickly in just 100 ms. Once attracted to the person, an individual may become emotionally attached to them and communicate affection through a copulatory gaze (1). This initial attraction is termed “love at first sight” because of its intensity and the flurry of strong emotions an individual goes through. This article discusses the reality of love at first sight, its signs, and the possibility of evolving into a lifetime commitment. Keep scrolling!
Can You Fall In Love At First Sight?
Yes, if the person matches the version of the ideal person in your head, you can experience a feeling quite similar to ’love’ at first sight. According to behavioral relationship expert Tracy Crossley, “You can fall in love with the idea of someone at the moment. Something about them compels you to want to get to know them, to invest time and energy in them.” But it is best not to confuse this physical attraction and chemistry with love. Just a glimpse isn’t enough to form a connection as deep as true love. Crossley adds, “I have found men do this more often than women. Meaning, men can meet a woman/man, and it is not intense chemistry or anything crazy (like making fantasies of riding off into the sunset together). They feel something different and are curious, interested, and already committed to learning more about the other person. In a sense, it is love at first sight, but it is not true love: I would say it is enchantment. Women do not have love at first sight (that often), though they may claim it. They tend to be more attached to an idea and how they want the person to fit into their idea of how they want things to be.” However, you don’t have to be disheartened yet. Love is about understanding a person and accepting them with all their flaws and shortcomings. The initial infatuation can develop into true love if you devote time to discovering shared interests and passions. You won’t know what potential the relationship has until you explore it together. Love is an exquisite feeling that builds over time. Experiencing love at first sight is merely a feeling of joy in finding a potential perfect companion. Let us understand the various signs that point toward love at first sight. Read on.
Signs Of Love At First Sight
1. You Can’t Take Your Eyes Off Them
When it comes to love at first sight, eye contact is everything. Your eyes lock on one another, and you can’t hear or see anyone or anything else. The ’come-hither look’ or copulatory gaze is the look humans have evolved to signal a decent sexual or reproductive partner.
2. You Feel Butterflies In Your Stomach
A key difference between love built over time and first-sight love is the sense of overwhelming nervousness. We find ourselves searching for words when we try to initiate conversations with the potential partner. They make you feel nervous and happy at the same time.
3. There Is A Sense Of Familiarity
“There is a sureness you feel with this person, not anxiety, but a feeling of ease and honesty. There is fear, but only minimal. There is a confidence that this is worth investing in,” mentions Crossley. It is almost as if you have known this person for a long time.
4. You Want To Know Them Inside-Out
You are instantly attracted to them, and you have a gut feeling that there is something special about this person. You feel fascinated with their thoughts and actions. Thus, there is a curiosity to know everything about the person.
5. You Can’t Find Any Flaw In Them
You feel as if you have found your perfect partner, a soulmate. Anything they do or say is adorable and impressive to you. The way they walk, talk, smile, or conduct themselves is incredibly appealing to you. If you have fallen in love at first sight, it is impossible to find even a single shortcoming in your love interest.
6. You Feel Uninhibited Around Them
When you are nervous around someone or feel the need to hide your authentic self, it is not easy to build a bond. On the other hand, when you are relaxed and confident, you can engage in interesting conversations and share your honest opinions. The second scenario is what happens when you fall in love at first sight with someone. Love at first sight is a beautiful, exhilarating feeling that needs time to develop. There has to be mutual respect and acceptance for the bond to deepen. However, it doesn’t mean you should discount the initial spark you feel with someone. Head to the next section to find out how love at first sight can lead to a happily ever after.
Can Love At First Sight Lead To A Successful Marriage?
“Yes. It can, but if someone believes love at first sight is wanting to jump someone’s bones and crazy chemistry, then they need to be real, as it is not love. People misconstrue what love is. Love is easy, not complicated. So, if it sparks a person to want to invest in a relationship with the other person, that is key to success. Of course, both people need to feel curiosity and interest in developing a relationship,” suggests Crossley. She adds, “Love at first sight is really a poor description of what happens when someone invests in a relationship with consistency and honesty. They have words and actions that match, and they have emotional intimacy.” So, it is important to know each other before jumping into a marriage. It is likely that the initial attraction is further strengthened by your compatibility and shared interests. If so, love at first sight can lead to a happy and fulfilling matrimonial bond. Does love at first sight last forever? Yes, love at first sight may lead to a lasting relationship. However, like any other relationship, it will require immense trust, understanding, and commitment to developing a stronger bond.
