Copyright timesnownews
Usually, love bombing looks like the best beginning ever — nonstop attention, unbelievable gestures, and the never-ending flow of compliments, and the quick establishment of an emotional bond. Still, it can be a deceptive kind of manipulation under the guise of affection. Understanding the differences between love bombing and genuine love helps in maintaining healthy, balanced connections. It is easy to mistake love bombing for the kind of love story people dream about. Your partner can’t wait to fill your life with messages, gifts, and promises of forever within just days or weeks. It is a very flattering and intoxicating feeling — the validation you get can make you feel special and desired. However, love bombing isn’t about love; it is about control. The extreme affection usually comes in suddenly and is often aimed at obtaining dominance over one’s emotions. After securing that emotional investment from you, the person might change the way they behave — withdrawing most of the attention, affection becoming inconsistent, and the relationship starts to feel confusing or draining. Real love does not rush but rather develops slowly over time. It is, among other things, a steady and consistent love based on respect and boundaries. A person who genuinely loves you does not overwhelm you but gives you the space and time you need. They talk less and listen more, and over time, the words and actions of the person start to align. In fact, real love allows for differences and the uniqueness of each individual. Love does not mean constant attention, and it would not make you feel guilty for setting boundaries. You would not feel anxious anymore, but rather calm and appreciated. The most telling factor in distinguishing the two is to look at pace and intention. Love bombing might be compared to the act of being swept off your feet, but you rarely get to touch the ground. The person could be very insistent on making decisions like moving in together or declaring love at an early stage. They are often displeased when you want to spend some time by yourself or when you question their behaviour. On the other hand, true love gives you your space and maintains your independence. The person who loves you wants to know the real you, not to own you. Their love stays strong even if things are not great, and they do not stop showing their affection as a way of punishing you. One of the major benefits that comes with recognising love bombing early on is that you put up a shield against emotional exhaustion and manipulation. When one’s affection is so overpowering that it feels suffocating, then it is time to take a step back and carefully observe. Real love is very different from that, as it does not commit you by force; rather, it wins your confidence slowly and quietly over time.
