A word that inspires countless poems and films, love is one of the most powerful emotions we can feel. It has the power to transform individuals, relationships and our world. As such, it has long fascinated philosophers and poets alike, as well as ordinary people. However, despite the many interpretations of this emotion, researchers have only recently started to understand it more fully.
Many scholars, psychologists and sociologists have different opinions on what love really is. Some believe that it is a biological need, similar to hunger, thirst or sleep. Others argue that it is a complex combination of primary emotions such as intimacy, passion and commitment. The triangular theory of love proposed by American psychologist Robert Sternberg in the 1980s focuses on these three emotional components.
Regardless of its exact definition, most people agree that when you love someone, your behavior changes. You become more generous, kind and patient. You want to help them through their struggles and you prioritize spending time together. You may even make sacrifices for them.
You are also likely to be more accepting of their flaws. For example, if they’re bad at math, you might help them practice or simply be understanding when they make mistakes. You might even start to like things you didn’t previously care for, just because your partner enjoys them.
In addition, happy people have a sense of purpose. They give back to their community and work on projects that have a larger meaning. They are honest with themselves and others, avoiding faking feelings or beliefs that aren’t in line with their own truths. They’re also not afraid to express their true feelings, no matter how embarrassing or inconvenient.
They’re not afraid to be vulnerable, sharing their innermost thoughts and feelings with those they love. This emotional intimacy can be difficult, but it’s often what makes the relationship so special. They aren’t afraid to admit their weaknesses, such as a fear of being alone or a lack of self-esteem.
The most common form of love is romantic. However, there are other forms of love that we experience in our everyday lives as well. We love our friends, our children, our pets, our countries, and our communities. We even love the food we eat and the clothes we wear, though some of these loves can be more complicated than others.
When it comes to writing about love, try to avoid being too sappy and unrealistic. If you can’t avoid it, at least add some realism by focusing on the negative aspects of the relationship, such as when your partner spends more time checking Instagram than they do talking to you. This can make the essay more relatable to readers and help readers see the real-world challenges of a relationship. It can also make the piece more interesting and help the reader connect with your protagonist.