5 signs you’re mistaking chemistry for real connection, as per psychology

We’ve all felt it– that spark when you meet someone new. They smile, say the right things, and suddenly, you can’t stop thinking about them. It’s intense, you’re already planning the next meet-up, texting non-stop, and imagining where this might go.

But here’s something worth thinking about: does that instant rush always mean something real? Not really.

Most times, it’s just chemistry, and that’s not a bad thing. It just doesn’t always lead to something lasting.

Chemistry is loud, it shows up fast, and it makes your heart race. But compatibility? That’s slower, you have to sit with it, talk, observe, and the mistake a lot of people make is assuming they’re the same thing.

If you’ve been in a “promising” start that burned out fast, you’re not alone. These five signs might help you catch the difference before you get too far in.