You ever lock eyes with someone, and the world slows down like you just stepped into a romantic movie starring you? The music swells (in your head), your heart does a little one, two-step, and suddenly, you’re convinced this is it. Love at first sight. That fairytale, love jones, soulmate-level magic that people write songs about.

But hold up—what if it’s not love at first sight? What if it’s just the first time you’ve been loved the way you deserve to be loved? The first time someone has truly seen you, valued you, and made you feel like you’re not asking for too much? Now, that’s a twist most of us don’t see coming.

The Myth of Love at First Sight

Love at first sight sounds dreamy, right? And I’m not saying it doesn’t exist. But a lot of times, what we’re really experiencing is intense attraction. Chemistry on ten. That magnetic pull that makes you wanna risk it all before you even know their middle name. A lot of lust.

But real love—the kind that stands the test of time, bad moods, and your icks? That takes knowing someone, not just feeling something strong in the moment.

The First Love That Loves You Right

Now, this one hits different. If you’ve been in relationships where you had to beg for effort, explain why you needed reassurance, or settle for half-hearted love, then meeting someone who just gets it can feel otherworldly. You start to wonder if you’ve been struck by some cosmic force.

But here’s the thing: sometimes, it’s not fate—it’s simply what healthy love feels like. You’re not in love because it’s destiny. You’re in love because, for the first time, you don’t have to fight for the bare minimum friend.

So, How Do You Know Which One It Is?

Here’s a little gut-check:

• If it’s love at first sight, ask yourself: Do I love them or the idea of them? Is this feeling based on attraction, or have they truly shown me they’re someone I want to build with?
• If it’s the first time you’re being loved right, check in with yourself: Am I mistaking consistency and effort for an instant soulmate connection? Or am I just finally experiencing what love should have always felt like?

The Bottom Line

Love at first sight makes a cute story, but love that’s right makes a solid future. And sometimes, the most beautiful love stories aren’t about instant sparks but about finally being seen, heard, and cared for in a way you never had before.

So, next time your heart skips a beat, take a deep breath and ask yourself: Is this love, or is this just love done right for the first time? Either way, friend—you deserve it all.

Xoxo, Drea