EVEN though we tell our kids and significant others we love them and probably mean it even more, we don't always say it with the meaning it deserves. Often in our busy lives, the words "I love you" are said with the same emotion as "Talk to you later" and come out sounding like an auto response.

Fortunately, there are some easy rules to apply so that when you tell your loved ones you love them, they'll believe it instead of just hearing it.

1. Use eye contact- One of the easiest ways to convey your love is through eye contact. Your words may not always carry the weight of your sincerity, but your eyes always will.

2. Use names- By adding your loved ones name, pet name or relation, your words are sure to get more attention.

3. Touch- Humans learn best when multiple senses are stimulated. A hug or a held hand adds a sensual component to your words.

4. Use non-verbal cues- As with above, adding a smile or wink to your words will increase their power.

5. Never use love and but in the same breath- Using these words in the same sentence sends mixed messages. If you have a concern, bring it up before and make sure the person you are talking to knows they are loved regardless of the concern.

6. Be unexpected- Don't save all your "I love you's" to bedtime or when you are leaving for the day. By saying these words at unexpected times, they are sure to be remembered.

7. Be unconditional- Loving unconditionally is something we owe our children. Telling them you love them when you least feel like saying it will reinforce the times you are expected to say it.

The next time you find yourself rushing an "I Love You", stop yourself, remember these rules and say it one more time.

DAD TALK

* Do you feel sincere every time you tell someone you love them?
* What ways have you told someone you loved them and gotten the best reactions?
* Do you feel like "I Love You" is becoming an auto-response like "Fine" is to "How are you doing?"