Here are 5 differences between true love and toxic love.
People keep looking for true love and when they get into a relationship things look as if their dream of a true soul mate has come true.
But does everything turn out exactly as one would like?
Gradually, it turns out that the person you like is a completely different person than the one you met at the beginning. This is when your “true love” takes the form of “toxic love”.
Read the main differences between love and lust
Therefore, before entering into a relationship you must know the true meanings of true love and toxic love.
Let’s dive into 5 major differences between true love and toxic love.
- Self-love versus relationship importance
In true love, self-development is most important. Both parties should want the best for each other.
In toxic love, the primary focus is on the relationship itself, sometimes obsessing over how the two people interact.
- Separate interest versus dependency
In true love, there is comfort in separate interests. We can have our own friends and meaningful relationships outside of our romantic relationships. We can pursue interests and ideas without fear of reprimand.
In toxic love, there is total involvement in each other’s lives. One cannot go anywhere without the other. This is dependence on others.
- Freedom versus inclination to change one’s partner into a different individual
In true love, there is no struggle in adopting your partner’s personality. You accept your partner as he/she is.
In the case of toxic love, there is an intense desire to change your partner into someone you would rather be with than love them the way they are.
- Reciprocal intimacy versus forced intimacy
In true love, intimacy is a free-flowing act that emerges from deep love, care, and passion. Respect reigns between partners in true love.
In toxic love, intimacy is something you feel pressured into because of fear, insecurity, and feeling as if you have to conform to your partner’s sexual desires.
- Friendly Conversation vs. Argumentative
In true love, the conversation is constructive. Each partner tries to understand the feelings and feelings of the other. Partners try to sort out their differences by “talking” politely and affectionately.
In toxic love, conversations start with petty arguments that finally turn to shifting blame, being defensive, and downright manipulative.
