In the early stages of a relationship, love and lust can feel incredibly similar, making it hard to tell the difference. Both bring excitement, attraction, and passion, but they have very different foundations.

Love and lust can feel incredibly similar in the early stages of a relationship, making it hard to tell the difference. Both bring excitement, attraction, and passion, but they have very different foundations. Lust is often fueled by physical desire, while love is deeper and built on emotional connection and commitment. So how do you know which one you're experiencing? Here are some key signs to help you distinguish between love and lust.

• Lust: Your attraction is mostly physical. You’re drawn to their looks, their body, or the way they make you feel in the moment. Conversations are often surface-level, and you may not feel a deep emotional bond.
• Love: You connect beyond physical attraction. You enjoy talking to them about everything—your dreams, fears, and future. You feel emotionally safe and valued in the relationship.

• Lust: You might not care much about their background, family, or personal struggles. Your main focus is on the fun, excitement, and intimacy you share.
• Love: You genuinely care about their well-being, interests, and personal growth. You want to support them through life's ups and downs.

• Lust: Arguments or misunderstandings feel like a turnoff, and you might ignore them instead of working through them. If things get difficult, you may lose interest quickly.
• Love: You’re willing to work through problems and find solutions together. Love isn’t just about perfect moments—it’s about overcoming challenges as a team.

• Lust: You enjoy the present but haven’t seriously thought about the future with this person. The idea of commitment might even feel overwhelming or unnecessary.
• Love: You naturally include them in your long-term plans. Whether it’s discussing careers, family, or life goals, you see them as a part of your future.

• Lust: When you’re not together, you might not think about them much. Your connection feels strongest when you’re physically together.
• Love: You miss them for more than just physical reasons. You enjoy their company, conversations, and emotional support, even from a distance.

• Lust: The main appeal is physical attraction and chemistry. If that faded, your interest might disappear too.
• Love: While attraction is important, you also admire their personality, kindness, intelligence, and values.

Lust can be intense and thrilling, but love is what truly lasts. If your relationship is built on emotional connection, mutual respect, and a desire to grow together, it’s likely love.

If it’s mostly about passion and physical attraction, it may just be lust. The key is to be honest with yourself and recognize what you truly want in a relationship.