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A Brief History of Infatuation, Overpromise, and Disappointment

Warren Bell

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Published in Inventions And Innovations: A Brief History Of Infatuation Overpromise And Disappointment

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We've all been there: that heady feeling of infatuation, when we can't stop thinking about someone and everything they do seems perfect. We see them as the answer to all of our problems, the person who will finally make us happy. But more often than not, infatuation fades, and we're left feeling disappointed and disillusioned.

Inventions and Innovations: A Brief History of Infatuation, Overpromise, and Disappointment

by Vaclav Smil

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	32618 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	846 pages

So what is infatuation, exactly? And why does it so often lead to disappointment?

Infatuation is a state of intense but short-lived passion and attraction. It's often characterized by feelings of euphoria, excitement, and longing. We idealize the object of our affection, seeing them as perfect and without flaw.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to infatuation, including:

* **Physical attraction:** We're often attracted to people who are physically attractive. This is because physical attractiveness is often associated with health and fertility. * **Similarity:** We tend to be attracted to people who are similar to us in terms of personality, values, and interests. This is because similarity makes us feel comfortable and understood. * **Proximity:** We're more likely to be attracted to people who we spend a lot of time with. This is because proximity gives us the opportunity to get to know someone and develop a connection with them.

While infatuation can be a wonderful feeling, it's important to remember that it's not the same as love. Love is a deeper, more lasting emotion that is based on mutual respect, understanding, and commitment. Infatuation, on the other hand, is often based on fantasy and illusion.

This is why infatuation so often leads to disappointment. When the initial rush of excitement wears off, we start to see the object of our affection more clearly. We realize that they're not perfect, and that they have flaws just like everyone else. This can lead to feelings of disappointment and disillusionment.

So what can we do to avoid the pitfalls of infatuation? Here are a few tips:

* **Take your time:** Don't rush into a relationship with someone you're infatuated with. Take the time to get to know them and develop a real connection. * **Be realistic:** Don't idealize the object of your affection. Remember that everyone has flaws. * **Set boundaries:** Don't let infatuation lead you to do things that you're not comfortable with. * **Talk to your partner:** If you're feeling infatuated with someone, talk to them about it. Let them know that you're interested in them, but that you're not ready to commit to a relationship yet.

Infatuation can be a wonderful feeling, but it's important to remember that it's not the same as love. By taking your time, being realistic, and setting boundaries, you can avoid the pitfalls of infatuation and find a relationship that's based on real love and respect.

Inventions and Innovations: A Brief History of Infatuation, Overpromise, and Disappointment

by Vaclav Smil

4.9 out of 5