I need a date. Tips on when to say I love you.

The phrase is much more than three little words. It’s also a silent question. As in, “Do you love me, too?” Properly managing this moment can spell the difference between euphoria and humiliation.

Wait at least several months, a minimum of three but preferably longer, before confessing your true love even if you feel it on the first night. It takes a while to gain and build trust. If you say the words you better mean it too. If not you are in for a world of pain. If your date says, “I love you” and you don’t love your date back, don’t say “Love you, too” just to be nice. You’ll open a can of worms that’ll only make a gigantic mess. It will be over right there.

If you’ve been together a while and you’re just waiting for your date to spill the beans first, take a chance and tell him or her how you feel. Your date may be waiting for you to take the plunge. I know that is scary for you.

The word “love” is followed by the word “marriage.” Make sure you’re clear on how you feel before putting your feelings into words, and give a thought to the way your date might receive what you’re about to say.

I hope you understand that true love implies commitment. It’s a scary thought and if you fail. You will fail everyone. If you’re not ready to be monogamous, connected, don’t say “I love you” just yet. I would wait to make sure you know it.

If the only time you’re tempted to confess love is during sex or when you’re apart, close your mouth, open your eyes, and see what’s really going on.