These three words – possible the most important three words in the world (apart from ‘a nuclear attack’). Words that should be followed with lots of affection and smiles and joy. Words that are often followed by pure fear. Words that cause grown men to flee their country of birth and seek refuge on deserted islands. Words that cause women to assault people in their search of the perfect pink serviettes for the wedding reception.

Say it to a woman, you have 24hrs

I have often used these three words as a break up line. It is a simple way of ending a relationship without having to do the “it’s me not you” line. Granted it is a tad risky, it is very unlikely he calls your bluff and loves you back and has the ring to proof it.

Say it to a man? You can get this!

So what do you do when you feel you love your partner and want to tell them? When do you do it? How do you do it?

May be easier to list a few times it’s not a good idea.

Date one – she may be an Angelina Jolie look alike, she may have just given you the most mind blowing sex, she may have rubbed your feet but the fact remains it is still date one. Impossible to fall in love that fast. Love at first sight was an idea created by Hollywood – it does not exist.

Good looking? But imagine her doing this all the time!!

At a dinner/drinks/party with all her mates. Not a good idea. Girls are different around their friends and their reaction will determine her reaction which may not be an accurate reflection of how she feels.

Perhaps not at the dinner party..

Via text/sms/mail/twitter/facebook or any other medium that requires you to type a message in.

Via text? Are you 12?

There really is no ideal setting for it and if you plan it you are bound to mess it up. It has to be natural but also does have to be planned a little. Ideally you want to be alone. You want to be relaxed. You want her to be relaxed.

My perfect “I love you moment” is in bed on a Sunday morning. Just the two of you lazing around with no real plans for the day.

On a lazy day? In the park? Better

Now while I realize it is not possible to orchestrate your feelings or when you express them. There are moments like that, where more is said in the action than in the actual words but girls will be girls and do need to hear it.

I am a live for the moment kind of girl so my real advice would be go for it. If you feel it then say it. If it feels right to say it then tell her. If she says it back – well played. If not then remember that famously cheesy saying “it is better to have loved and lost than never have loved at all”