Are you ready to say it? When's the best time? We reveals essential "I Love You" etiquette. Have you caught the love bug yet? Even if you're head over heels for someone, the thought of uttering those three little words — "I love you" — can be incredibly nervewracking.
What's the right time to do it? What if he doesn't say it back? Make the moment as special as your partner is.
1. Know The Difference Between Lust And Love: When your relationship is new, you can't keep your hands off each other and every other sentence begins with, "So, my boyfriend ..." That's fantastic. Is it love? Maybe. When you're in lust, you're wearing rose-tinted glasses and seeing the person as perfect. When you're in love, you're making a choice to accept someone and all their flaws. Before you say, "I love you," think long and hard about whether you mean it.
2. Pick The Right Time: Don't call your man at 1 pm when he's busy at the office to profess your love. Do it at a time when you are both having fun and don't have the pressure of work, kids or washing dishes. The ideal moment might be on a lazy weekend morning, when you're spending time together before bed, or according to a new study, Saturday nights at 10 pm.
3. Privacy Is Key: Don't tell someone you love them in front of a crowd! Do it in private so there is no pressure on them or you. Dropping the "I Love You" bomb for the first time in public, like at a crowded party or a restaurant, makes everyone uncomfortable — including the person you're saying it to.
4. Say It When You Mean It: Instead of planning out the perfect way to say "I love you," let the moment come spontaneously. When the words are on the tip of your tongue and you can't refrain from saying them any longer, you know you've found your moment. A great time to tell someone you love them is after you're finished making love, because you'll both be relaxed. Oxytocin, one of the bonding love hormones, will be flowing.
5. Be Prepared For Any Response: You might say "I love you" and instantly hear those three glorious words back — yes! But if not, don't freak. The other person might just need more time to return the sentiment. If this happens, take a deep breath and appreciate yourself for being brave enough to be the first one to say it. Love takes courage, and if you can say 'I love you' without having expectations and or taking their lack of response personally, this means you are in a good, stable place.
6. You Don't Have To Say It Back Right Away: On the flip side, if you hear "I love you" from the person you're dating for the first time, think before you speak. It might be tempting to automatically return the sentiment, but honesty is crucial. When it's not authentic, the other person will sense it. You can thank them and tell them you want it to feel as special to them when you are ready to say it.
However you say it, make sure it comes from the heart.
