How do I know if I am in love?

Illustration/Uday Mohite

I am a 25-year old guy and have been dating a girl I met in college. We didn't know each other very well at the time but, after graduation, we met and got along. I don't know if we are in love, but I know we are genuinely fond of each other and like spending time together. How will I know if I love her or if she wants this to be a serious relationship? I asked her this question a while ago and she said we would know when we felt a change in how we feel about each other. This is my first real relationship, so I don't understand what exactly she means by this. What can I do to figure out if this is someone I want to be with?
You can stop worrying about it, for a start, and focus on the fact that you both like spending time together. The more you meet, and chat, the easier it will be for you to understand each other and get a sense of who the person you're with really is. When you get to a stage of comfort and realise that you want this person to be part of your life in some capacity, that is the sign of a relationship that works. From that point on, it's simply a matter of evolution, strengthening your bond, and talking about your feelings and what your individual expectations are. There is no manual on when you feel a change towards someone, but we are all wired to be social beings who need companionship. I suggest you ignore the question of how or why, and simply concentrate on how important she is in your life.

What can I tell my girlfriend when she spends too much money on herself? It's her salary so I don't have a right, but I believe she is wasting a lot on frivolous things instead of saving for her future. Should I not say anything at all?
It's her money and her prerogative.

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