"You never lose by loving. You always lose by holding back." - B de Angelis

Today I told three people I love them. The first was very easy. My husband of one month was lying next to me when I woke up, and smiled at me as I opened my eyes. I do love him, and tell him so many times a day, just so he doesn't forget! To tell someone close to you, physically and emotionally, that you love them, is not difficult - it would be unthinkable not to! I am rewarded with a hug, a kiss, an "I love you too", to start my day.

The rest of the people in my life may be a little more difficult to tell. But I have learned in life that I will take so much more from my relationships if I say how I feel. My son is an adult, living fifty miles away. He has a career, a relationship, a life separate from me. It's easy to speak quickly on the phone; family updates and arrangements, facts and sound bites. Not so easy to remember to tell him I love him and that I am proud of him. When I do, it takes only a moment, and I am rewarded with "Love you too mum", and the knowledge he will go about his day walking a little taller because his mum believes in him.

The third time I said 'I love you' today was an accident! A new client received a text aimed at my well behaved husband who had quietly gone about the housework that needed doing. The text said 'Love you hugely' amongst other things. Not the desired outcome of course, but nevertheless it gave my new client some amusement, and was therefore worthwhile. She is still a valued life coaching client of mine!