When it comes to romantic relationships, we are conditioned to pay attention to any warning signs about a person, commonly referred to as red flags.
There are reasons why the topic comes up so often in the context of romantic relationships, but we won't go into why that's important, and what can happen if you ignore red flags. It is important to pay attention to a current or potential partner's positive traits, too, as you absolutely should continue to be aware of red flags.
It doesn't mean ignoring bad behavior because of a few seemingly good qualities, but it does mean looking at the best of what they bring to the table, and determining whether they meet your basic relationship needs.
In an article for Well+Good, Natalie Arroyo Camacho spoke with a relationship expert and therapist to learn more about relationship green flags. Here are some things to keep in mind.
They are familiar with themselves.
This usually means that a person knows what they need in a romantic relationship, and are willing to be open and honest in conversations with you and other people as well.
One indicator of whether someone is capable of taking care of themselves, like working out or eating healthy, is how present they are.
They respect and honor it when you say no.
A licensed marriage and family therapist told Well+Good that it was a big one. No explanation is needed for your no.
The focus is not on your physical relationship.
The physical side of a romantic relationship is important, but if it is someone's main concern and focus, that would be red-flag territory. If they show that they are really curious about you, not just what they can get out of it, that is definitely a green flag.
