There is essentially no limit to the number of relationship deal breakers. Red flags attract a lot of attention in the dating scene, even though some individuals choose to ignore them. They range from seemingly harmless actions like love bombing to talking trash about ex-partners. What do you hear less about? Green flags.
According to Shanita Brown, a clinical mental health counselor speaking to SELF, “Green flags are positive indicators that a connection has the potential to flourish into a safe, healthy, lasting relationship.”
They respect your boundaries
We need personal boundaries for both our physical and mental health. Let the other person know what you are and aren’t comfortable with in any relationship. By establishing personal boundaries, we construct a wall to guard our mental well-being, personal space, and sense of safety and security. Setting limits can be challenging, but effective boundaries foster respectful, long-lasting partnerships. With the help of boundaries, we may learn how to respect one other’s personal space and comfort zones and know what to anticipate from a relationship.
Consistent Communication and Understanding
The foundation of each personal relationship is effective communication. Do you regularly check in with your loved ones to discuss your relationship and emotions? Are you willing to talk about issues when they come up?
Remember that effective communication doesn’t have to be ongoing. Sending and receiving messages all day long does not constitute genuine communication. Even though you only sometimes communicate with some of your friends, the fact that you are willing to do so in an atmosphere of mutual respect ensures that those bonds will endure.
Share the same values
If you and your partner share similar values, this is a positive indicator of long-term compatibility. Look closely at whether your priorities line up at the start of any relationship. Even though your objectives need not coincide, it is important that you hold similar beliefs about the world, as this fosters a sense of understanding between you.
They keep their promises
According to Dr. Fancher, the mere fact that someone follows through on commitments and intentions is a positive sign worth noting even if there isn’t yet a real commitment involved in your relationship. Someone who makes good on their promises—say, by showing up for a family gathering or picking you up from the airport—shows respect for both you and for themselves.
The list of green flags is endless, what’s important is that you know that the person you are in a relationship with feels like love and you feel most yourself when you are with them. Even if you do notice a red flag, if you raise that up with them, they should be willing to work on that for the sake of the relationship. Remember, the grass is green where you water it.
