Having great looks and a sense of humor are common qualities that people often look for in a romantic partner.

But there are a few other factors you’re potentially unaware of that also play a major role in who you find yourself attracted to.

Our past experiences, general proximity, and biology all have a role in determining who captures our attention and who doesn’t.

Let’s talk about what causes human attraction.

What Causes Attraction?

At a biological level we can say hormones and neurotransmitters in our brain help in causing human attraction.

Attraction is also partly determined through our sense of smell, and what is referred to as pheromones. Higher levels of oxytocin and dopamine may also increase the level of attraction.

Can Familiarity Cause Attraction?

Proximity matters to attraction because it allows for familiarity, and people are more attracted to that which is familiar.

There’s a certain comfort in knowing what to expect from others, and we simply like what is familiar. Just being repeatedly exposed to someone can increase the likelihood that we will be attracted to them.

While this is often happening on a subconscious level, research has found it to be one of the most basic principles of attraction. (Source: www.courses.lumenlearning.com)

How Do You Know If You Really Like Someone?

When you’re in love with someone, you will start to develop strong compassion for them. The urge to be connected to this person brings new aspects to your relationship, like emotional or physical intimacy, passion, and a desire to know everything about them.

Why Do I Feel So Drawn To Someone I Barely Know?

A study published in Psychological Science revealed that indeed, being unavailable is attractive. 

We tend to be more attracted to someone whose feelings may be unclear. We think about them more because we’re trying to figure them out. It might be the reason why you can’t get that new person out of your head. (Source: www.ideapod.com)

Why Do I Like Someone So Easily?

The brain is essentially designed to fall in love quickly. During the early stages of a relationship, you’re basically high on dopamine and oxytocin, and your body encourages you to bond quickly. (Source: www.upjourney.com)

How Do I Know If I Like Someone Or Just The Idea of Them?

You probably like someone for more than just their attention if you think of them all the time, even when they’re not around.

You’re likely having strong feelings about them if you’re often seeking to initiate conversations with them, or are looking to spend time together as much as possible.

What Should You Not Do In The Early Stages Of Dating?

According to Buzzfeed, here are some of the most common errors:

• Talking about an ex.
• Revealing too much about yourself.
• Being too picky.
• Having a strict checklist.

What Does Liking Someone Feel Like?

The first sign of liking someone is often that you get nervous around them. 

Sweaty palms, or stomach butterflies along with an increased heartbeat can be all signs that you have feelings for someone.

Does Liking Someone Go Away?

Feelings of love can and do fade, but generally it isn’t a quick process.

If the relationship or non-relationship was particularly emotionally draining, or you are the one who was dumped, you may feel some initial difficulty getting over an ex.

It’s normal to feel a lot of discomfort in the meantime. Have patience with yourself.

Does Finding Love Get Harder With Age?

As we mature we become a lot more self-reliant, self-assured, and self-loving. We’re less likely to need a relationship in our lives to help us feel validated.

We’re seeking more than just companionship in our relationships. We need it to be worth it, and we’re looking for it to also be meaningful and rewarding.

Can I Find Love After 30?

Love can happen at any age, so don’t pressure yourself too much, and don’t allow family or peer pressure make you believe that there’s something wrong with you for being single.

Final Thoughts

There are many factors affecting whether we feel attracted to someone or not.

Sometimes our fears about relationships can make it hard to tell if we like someone.

We could be afraid of commitment in general, or we may also be subconsciously afraid of being abandoned or of making the wrong choice to begin with.

Don’t let past experiences cloud your present and future romantic prospects. Always be open to new experiences and meeting new people without judging them. 

Please leave me a comment below or click the links for further reading.

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What Makes Someone Physically Attracted