Relationships that ignite like a fire but burn out fast – sound familiar? Psychologist Mark Travers reveals why the initial rush of a relationship can fool us and how to avoid the trap of emotional illusions. The start of a relationship is often like a rollercoaster ride – excitement, butterflies in your stomach, but also a fog that clouds your judgment. Travers warns that intense attraction can just be a reflection of old patterns, and we often fall in love with the feeling of validation, not the real person. If you feel like you have to earn love in a relationship, you might be repeating old mistakes instead of building something new and healthy. Idealizing your partner at the beginning can be sweet, but if you ignore real flaws and expect your partner to change, prepare for disappointment. A real relationship should give you security, understanding, and a sense of worth, not be an escape from problems. If you enter a relationship to run away from inner insecurity, it’s unlikely to withstand the pressure of unrealistic expectations. So slow down, ask yourself three key questions, and wonder if your relationship is really what you need or just an escape from reality. Got a different take? Share it – maybe your story will shatter this illusion!
