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What is the link between romantic love and long-term happiness in relationships?

Joaquin McQuilliam

Well, well, well... the age-old question of the link between romantic love and long-term happiness in relationships. A topic that has been dissected and analyzed by the greatest minds in history. I mean, who hasn't pondered this question at least once in their life?

First thing's first, let's define what we mean by romantic love. Because let's face it, we can't just go around throwing that term willy-nilly without understanding the difference between romantic love and, say, the love you have for your cute little puppy.

Romantic love is that feeling you get when you meet someone who makes your heart skip a beat. You know, the butterflies in the stomach, the sweaty palms, the feeling of walking on clouds. It's that heady mix of attraction, infatuation, and desire that makes you go weak at the knees.

But, does that feeling of euphoria translate into long-term happiness in relationships? Well, buckle up folks, because we're about to explore that very question.

The short answer is... drumroll please... it depends. Yeah, I know, not the satisfying answer you were hoping for. But hear me out.

You see, research has shown that the initial passion and excitement of romantic love tends to fade over time. That's not to say that you won't still feel love and affection for your partner after the honeymoon period is over, but that initial rush of excitement will inevitably simmer down.

So, if we're only looking at the initial stages of a relationship, then yes, romantic love can make us feel incredibly happy. But, if we're looking at long-term happiness, then other factors come into play.

For instance, research has shown that shared values, common interests, and communication are some of the key ingredients for long-term happiness in relationships. Basically, it's the stuff that makes up a strong foundation that keeps the relationship going even when the romantic love has faded.

It's like building a house. Sure, the fancy wallpaper and decorative touches may make it look pretty, but it's the solid foundation, sturdy walls, and functioning plumbing that will ensure the house lasts for years to come.

So, in conclusion, romantic love can certainly make us happy in the short term, but it's the other factors that come into play that will determine whether or not we're still happy in the long run. And who knows, maybe even with a foundation built on shared values and open communication, you can still find moments of those heady, romantic feelings throughout your relationship. After all, maybe the real secret to long-term happiness is a little bit of both.