Sometimes, it’s incredibly hard to tell when to say “I love you” to your partner.
Important lesson: The right time is definitely not on the first date. I learned that the hard way.
But a few months into a relationship, it might start to feel like it’s time to say those three special words — either “this is over” or “I love you.”
To figure out when it’s a good time to drop the L bomb, I asked Laura Bilotta, dating coach, matchmaker, and author of Single in the City: From Hookups & Heartbreaks, To Love & Lifemates, Tales & Tips To Attract Your Perfect Match, about things you might feel when it’s time to say those good three words to your partner.
1. You Don’t Want To Leave His Side
A good sign you’re in love is when you “never [want] to leave your significant other, even for a few hours,” Bilotta says. Because when you’re in love, you truly enjoy each other’s company.
She continues, “Obviously, you’re two functioning adults with your own lives, but let’s face it: If you had the choice right now, the two of you would spend the whole day in your bubble, just enjoying each other.”
I’ve definitely been there, and I definitely have that one friend who disappears every time she gets a boyfriend. And I have to remember not to be too hard on her. Why? Because that’s what happens when you’re in love!
2. You’ll Fart In Front Of Him (Seriously)
I have never done this in front of a guy (on purpose, at least). But apparently, there’s more to it than just farting in front of him. It’s about comfort.
“You don’t have to put on a show (or your face) when you’re together. You can confide in each other about everything, even if it’s embarrassing,” Bilotta says, “Farts happen, you love each other anyway.”
So, a good litmus test to find out if you and your guy are ready to say “I love you”? A Chipotle dinner, and then, wait it out.
3. Your Relationship Is Reciprocal
Love is an action that involves two people. So if you have a good feeling your partner feels the same way you do, then it’s probably safe to tell him you love him.
A good indicator? Bilotta says, “You feel that they fully reciprocate your feelings of love and affection, and you can start to see your future together. Sometimes, you catch yourself just staring at them, wondering how you got so lucky.”
4. You Feel Secure
Security means your partner is consistent, dependable, and you know that you can count on him.
“You trust each other completely and know that even after you say ‘I love you,’ nothing will change. If you leave your Facebook open, you don’t have to worry about snooping. Privacy is important in your relationship,” Bilotta says.
So feeling ready to say “I love you” also means that you and your partner feel you can use one another’s phones freely, without fear of finding something inappropriate on them. That is what love means this day and age!
5. There’s Passion
Want to know if you’re ready to say those big three words? Well, you’ll probably still feel all lusty for your partner, even after you’ve been together for a while.
Bilotta says you’re probably ready if “the honeymoon stage isn’t over” after a while.
“You’re still feeling steamy, kisses are long and passionate, and things in the bedroom just keep getting better. You find yourself complimenting them all the time. You just can’t help it, they’re ADORABLE!” Bilotta says.
So if you’re still annoying everyone around you with your PDA, then it might be time to add “I love you” to the mix, along with those public make-outs.
6. You’re Euphoric
Couples in love are happy. It’s easy to associate drama with love, but that’s not usually the case.
Bilotta says that if you’re in love, then “feelings of euphoria overwhelm you.”
She continues, “Everything seems wonderful and exciting; nothing can be better than you and your new love. You are at your happiest and you want everyone to know it.”
But don’t brag about it too hard. Your single friends (i.e. me, the perpetual single friend) might get a little annoyed after a while.
So, if you’re feeling a few of these feelings, it might be time to say “I love you” to your partner.
Or, just post this on your Facebook, hope your boyfriend reads it, gets the message, and wait for him to say those three special words to you. That’ll probably work just as well!
6 things you’ll feel when it’s time to say ‘I Love You’ to your partner
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