Watch romantic scenes in movies and shows for inspiration. The “right moment” might feel powerful and almost cinematic – like the scene when the guy gets the girl, and they tell each other how they feel.

Sometimes, admittedly, there will be no “right time. " You can get her attention by saying, “I need to tell you something important. " Not all attention is good attention. Do not say “I love you” to placate her when she’s angry, or when she’s trying to tell you something else that’s important.

If you need to calm your nerves, try taking deep breaths. Inhale, slowly, for as long as possible, and then gradually exhale in a measured flow. Focus only on the act of breathing: on the in-and-out of your breath. [2] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Business Review Online and print journal covering topics related to business management practices Go to source

Consider explaining the story of how you came to love her. Say something true, and honest, and sweet. Make it unique, and make her feel special. The way you say the words is up to you. You can say it casually or earnestly, depending on your comfort level. Make sure that she knows you’re serious – unless you want to give yourself an out.

If she doesn’t say it back right away, that’s okay. She feels how she feels, and you feel how you feel. You may be hurt, but do not be angry. Respect her right to keep her own counsel. No matter her response, be proud of yourself for telling her how you feel. It takes a lot of courage to tell someone that you love them, and mean it. Whatever happens: now she knows.

Love is notoriously hard to define. Some say that young people tend to confuse “true love” with a shallower level of infatuation or “puppy love. " Others believe that you can feel deep, meaningful love at any age. The point being: love means something different to everybody. [4] X Research source If this is your first meaningful relationship with a girl, think before you say, “I love you. " Sometimes, you “just know” when you love someone. However, if you’ve only been together for a few weeks—or even a few months—it might be wise to wait a while before you drop the “L-word. “[5] X Research source

Think about the way that she acts around you. You should be able to tell if she likes you by the way she looks at you and the amount of attention that she gives you. If you’re going to tell her that you love her, she should at least have said that she likes you a lot. [8] X Research source

Say, “I want you to know that I care really deeply for you. You’ve brought so much happiness into my life, and I truly value that. “[9] X Research source Say, “I like you a lot. You make me really happy. " She’ll know how you feel, but she won’t have to worry about the serious implications of “love. " Say that you love something about her, not that you love her. This can be a solid way to ease into the conversation. For instance, say, “I love the way you smile when you hear your favorite song,” or “I love your eyes. They’re absolutely captivating. "