Self-love

In infatuation, the person is a passive victim of the spell of conceived attraction for the object.

In love there is an active appreciation of intrinsic worth of the object of love.

-

Meher Baba

Knowing and loving yourself are prerequisites to fully loving another. Instead of seeking a partner in an effort to be filled up, you will consciously choose an individual who you truly appreciate as a separate person. Most people are confused about the nature of self-love and how that translates to intimacy. When you have generosity of spirit, compassion, understanding, awareness, courage, resolve, and kindness directed toward yourself, you are filled with a very special kind of loving openness. You don't need anyone to give you this expansive feeling. Therefore, you can make a conscious and active appraisal of any partners who might come into your life.