Why “I Love You” Isn’t Enough: The Transformative Power of Adding “Because”

A Heartfelt Reflection for the Holiday Season

As the year 2025 draws to a close and we prepare to welcome 2026, I’ve been reflecting on those three little words we often say without much thought: “I love you.”

When we’re young, these words flow freely – to family, friends, even our pets (because let’s be honest, our furry companions absolutely deserve them). But as we grow older, something shifts. We become more thoughtful, more deliberate. We begin to question: Do I truly love this person? What does that even mean?

I believe we do love – just in different capacities and depths. And during this season of gratitude and connection, I’ve realized something powerful: “I love you” becomes infinitely more meaningful when followed by “because…”

Why Your “Because” Matters More Than You Think

In our fast-paced world, we’ve reduced love to a casual sign-off. But what if we took a moment to deepen those connections? What if we explained why someone makes our heart beat a little faster, our soul a little brighter?

Here’s what I’ve discovered about adding “because” to “I love you”. These are my actual thoughts when I’m talking to a person, writing them a letter or email or just thinking about them with the radio off driving in silence. If you know me, you know which of these applies to you (some more than others).

Reason	Why It Matters
You make me feel so appreciated	Recognition fuels our sense of worth in ways we often underestimate
You help me, constantly	Consistent support builds the foundation of lasting relationships
You support my goals and dreams	True love cheers for your growth, even when it means you might outgrow them
You are a good human being	Character matters more than charm when the years add up
You’re humble and caring without an audience	Authentic kindness reveals true character
You keep calm in tough times	Emotional stability creates safety in relationships
You clearly want me to succeed	Selfless support separates casual connections from meaningful bonds
You’re productive, motivated and inspiring	Growth-oriented people lift everyone around them
You share positivity that makes me feel good	Joy is contagious, and we become like those we spend time with

The Ripple Effect of Specific Love

When we articulate why we love someone, something magical happens. It’s not just about making them feel special (though it does that beautifully). It’s about training our own hearts to see the goodness in others.

This practice has changed how I move through the world. I find myself noticing more – the small kindnesses, the quiet strengths, the everyday graces that make people remarkable. And with each observation, my capacity to love deepens.

Your Challenge This Holiday Season

As we transition from 2025 to 2026, I invite you to try something simple but profound:

The next time you say “I love you,” add your “because.”

Start small. Maybe it’s to your partner: “I love you because you always know when I need quiet space.” Or to a friend: “I love you because you remember the little things that matter to me.” Even to your pet: “I love you because you greet me like I’m the most important person in the world, every single time.”

Say the words out loud!

At first, it might feel uncomfortable. That’s okay. Like any meaningful practice, it takes time to become natural. But trust me – the more you do it, the more you’ll see reasons to love the people in your life. And eventually, you won’t just be saying “I love you” more meaningfully – you’ll actually be feeling it more deeply.

This isn’t just about words. It’s about cultivating a mindset of gratitude and attention that transforms how we connect with everyone around us.

So as the clock ticks toward a new year, I leave you with this: Love grows when we name it. Try it, and watch how your relationships – and your heart – expand in ways you never expected.

What’s one “because” you’ll share this holiday season? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below.

I love you because you are taking the time to pay attention to me through this tiny blog site I’ve had for a long time.

PLP,

Sarita

Peace! Love! Positivity!