The Difference Between Like & Love

People often say there is a thin line between like and love because at first both can feel equally warm and exciting. Yet the difference is not how strong the feeling is, but how steady the commitment becomes.

There is a simple reflection that explains this well: “When you like a flower, you pluck it, but when you love a flower, you water it daily.” Liking is drawn to what feels good and enjoyable in the moment. Loving takes responsibility for nurturing what it values so it can grow.

When you like someone, you appreciate their qualities and the way they make you feel. When you love someone, you choose to invest in their wellbeing, remain present through change, and strengthen the bond with steady effort. Love is not sustained by attraction alone, but by intentional care and the decision to stay.

For example, someone who likes you may show up when life feels light and celebratory. They may praise your achievements, enjoy your confidence, and appreciate your energy. Yet when you face uncertainty, stress, or disappointment, their presence may become inconsistent. Love, on the other hand, remains steady. It stays engaged during difficult conversations, offers reassurance when you doubt yourself, and stands beside you when circumstances are heavy.

As you reflect on your relationships, pay attention to who is truly investing in the bond and where you are doing the same. That awareness allows you to pour your energy into relationships that are ready for depth, growth, and shared responsibility, instead of holding on to bonds that were never meant to be nurtured.

If you feel called to grow your capacity to love and to be loved with greater depth and intention, I invite you to explore my book Love Will Liberate, available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, IngramSpark, and other online retailers through here.

You can also celebrate this work with me at the virtual book celebration on February 25 at 11am EST here. If you are in Detroit, join me for a Sip and Share gathering on March 17 hosted by Share Detroit here, or the book reading and signing at Pages Bookshop on April 04 here. If you also need support, you can explore coaching/therapy with me through here. Ashe'

Demarra West

Founder