The Role of Commitment

Psychologist Robert Sternberg's triangular theory of love names three components: intimacy (closeness), passion (desire), and commitment (decision). Complete love needs all three, but commitment is the only one you can fully control.

Passion rises and falls on its own. Intimacy needs a vulnerability that is not always there. But commitment is a decision you make every morning. That is why it can carry a couple through low-passion stretches: when the spark dims, the choice to stay holds the relationship steady long enough for closeness and desire to return.