A psychologist, defines limerence as great love infatuation, deep fixation, and blissful desire. Patel says limerence is "unnaturally intense" and fantasy-based.
"It's an emotional preoccupation unlike a loving connection, which is mutual," Patel says.
Love fades into something deeper and more fluid, unlike limerence. Limerence, like love, is intense yet doesn't always fade.
Symptoms Overemphasizing a partner's qualities "They'll also exaggerate these qualities."
Ignoring baggage in a relationship.
Being so preoccupied with the individual that it's impossible to function. "Thoughts obsess."
Stage 1: "This stage of limerence involves addicted type behavior, thinking about the other 24/7, tension, heart palpitations, stomach worry, and even intrusive thoughts."
Step 2: "You begin to just see what you want to see in the person." "They're perfect. You're deluded because you're so sure. You admire them, which hinders your day."
Stage 3: "Reality kicks in and forms a dissonance between your ideas," according to Patel.