Think of it this way: loving someone means you wouldn’t want to experience life without them. Now, everyone’s definition of “loving someone” can be different, as “love” can mean many things to different people.

Everyone describes “being in love” differently because love is an individualized and complicated emotion. For instance, “being in love” can be like the first warm spring day after a brutal winter or like being lost in the right direction. [2] X Research source

As a rule of thumb, you’re in love with someone if you have a crush on them and love someone if you care deeply about them. In other words, being in love with your best friend is a possibility (especially if you start daydreaming about kissing them), but you’re most likely not in love with your mom because the idea of kissing her makes you say, “Ew!”

Let’s return to our example with your mom and best friend: With each sandwich your mom makes and bedtime story she tells you, you start to love her even more–she’s always there for you no matter what. You love your best friend because of their silly jokes and the fun games they play—you enjoy hanging out with them! One day, you wake up and start to see your best friend in a new light. Their smile suddenly lights up the room, and you can’t stop thinking about what it would feel like to hold their hand. And just like that, you’re “in love. ”

For instance, you might love Taylor Swift’s music and her ability to create media you relate to, but you can’t be in love with her because you don’t know each other personally. Now, it’s possible to have a crush on a celebrity, such as Taylor Swift, but being in love with someone generally requires a mutual connection.

For example, say you were in love with your crush. You get together but realize you liked the idea of each other more than actually being together. And just like that, you’re no longer “in love. ” Now, think about a time when you fought with your mom. You may have hated each other for a while, but underneath, you still loved her.

The feeling of falling in love is often associated with nerves, sweaty palms, a racing heart, and positivity. [5] X Research source