10 Reasons to Say "I Love You"

Just three little words can mean the whole world to someone. As a relationship matures, you may start to forget to say, "I love you" as you get stuck in the routines of daily life. Telling someone you love him often helps you maintain your close bonds over time. Use the words liberally.

1. Love

Of course, the best reason to say, "I love you" is because you really love the person. You may find there are times in your life when you're reminded of this for some particular reason and just want to blurt out the words.

2. Reassurance

Hearing the words often allows the other person to feel reassured that you really do love him and are thinking about him, even though you may get caught up in other things. If a person goes too long without hearing that you love him, he may start to fear that you don't.

3. Because You Can

Express your love freely because you never know when you may not have the chance to do it again. Your world can change in a heartbeat and you may never have a moment like this again.

4. Security

Hearing the words, "I love you" can make a person feel more secure in the relationship. He will know your feelings and where he stands.

5. To Get Some

Admit it--it's been awhile since you and your honey last got together. Reminding him that you do love him can help him feel closer to you, which may open the door to a bit of hanky-panky.

6. To Hear It Back

When you say, "I love you," most often you're going to hear it back. If you've been feeling a bit lonely and withdrawn--even though you're in a relationship--saying the words will almost guarantee that you'll hear them back. This can make you feel better about yourself and your position in the relationship.

7. It's Unconditional

When you're having a disagreement with someone, it helps to say "I love you" just to remind the other person that you do really love her, even though you may be arguing. This is particularly true when you're talking about your children.

8. Protection

When others are attacking your honey, for whatever reason, it can feel like everyone is against him. When you say "I love you," you can protect him from the sting of these attacks and show others that you are a united front.

9. Pride

When your husband has met some great accomplishment, such as a promotion at work or losing 10 pounds, you naturally feel proud that you are his wife. Telling him that you love him can show him this pride.

10. That Spider Isn't Going to Kill Itself

Face it--sometimes, you say "I love you" because it's going to get you what you want. He might do the dishes, run out to the store at 3 a.m. to buy you ice cream during your third trimester and even kill that huge scary spider in the corner. It's not pretty, but it works, so don't be ashamed to use this from time to time.