Limerence is a fancy word for that feeling of being completely obsessed with another person. It’s a state of intense longing and intrusive, often obsessive thoughts, hoping the other person feels the same way. Some people describe it as “love on steroids,” but it’s more than just a crush.
Limerence can feel amazing, like you’re floating on air. But it can also be incredibly painful, especially if those feelings aren’t returned. It’s a normal human experience, but it has the potential to cause problems in your life.
Like other emotional states, limerence tends to unfold in stages. So, what are the 4 stages of limerence, and what can you expect from each of them?
Understanding these stages is the first step toward managing the experience and deciding whether or not you want to try to move past it.