Dating Red Flags to Look Out For: How to Handle Relationship Red Flags

Some “red flags” are entirely subjective, as you may know, if you’ve played the game “Red Flag or Deal Breaker” with friends. They focus on a specific person and their “ideals, wants, and preferences.” A red flag may also change over time, much like what we consider a red light. “Today’s red flag might not be one tomorrow, and vice versa. Some frequent early red flags in dating include communication difficulties, values, and judgment issues.

We may get a red flag from someone’s remarks or conduct, indicating that they aren’t ready for a relationship or not prepared for one with you. Depending on the person and the conduct, it can take one date or many years for the warning bell to ring.

Unfortunately, we’re prone to overlook these red flags when we’re infatuated. People can be emotionally charged and miss the warning signs initially, or they may find a means to deceive themselves into minimizing the damage. Occasionally, they lose them if their picker is down or there are no clear lines of demarcation. They may only become apparent after the relationship has come to an end. In hindsight, you can clearly see them, and many people recognize the signs.

Here are a few examples of red flags for dating in today’s dating environment. While some may be resolved with communication, others, such as any abuse, should be dealt with immediately.

A pattern of inconsistency:

Relationships are meant to provide comfort during our highs and lows. When you’re in a relationship, you want to be able to count on your partner at all times, especially when you’re stressed. The definition of consistency is “remaining consistent with your actions and decisions.” It’s the backbone for a long-lasting and sturdy connection. The phrase “I’m here for you” conveys a sense of security and dependability in a relationship. If there isn’t enough commitment, you’re probably in a situationship.

If the individual you’re dating is telling you all of the right things but never does anything about it, it’s one of the clearest red flags that he’s trying to play you. When their words and actions don’t match, it indicates inconsistency. It’s tempting to believe you’re asking for too much, but I’m here to tell you that you aren’t. You’re just asking the wrong individual.

It’s harmful to your emotional and psychological health to experience inconsistency in a relationship. It’s not easy to handle being overlooked by someone you care about.

Emotional unavailability:

Have you ever felt like you’re the only one who is trying in a relationship? If your partner is emotionally unavailable, it can be one of the most frustrating things in the world. You want to be with someone who makes you feel special and loved, not someone who leaves you feeling alone and unimportant.

An emotionally unavailable person will often withdraw from conversations, avoid discussing their feelings, and make excuses for their behavior. They may also blame you for their emotional distance. If you’re in a relationship with someone emotionally unavailable, it’s important to communicate your needs and set boundaries.

Breaking away from an emotionally unavailable partner may be difficult, but it’s crucial to remember that you require a person in the relationship who is there and committed. Emotional unavailability can be early red flags in dating.

A history of infidelity:

If your partner has a history of cheating, it’s one of the biggest red flags in a relationship. Cheating is a major breach of trust, and it can be difficult to return. If your partner has cheated in the past, it’s important to discuss trust, respect, and commitment.

It’s also important, to be honest about what you’re willing to tolerate in a relationship. If you’re not comfortable with your partner being with someone else, then it’s probably not the right relationship for you.

A history of infidelity is a major red flag, and it’s important, to be honest about what you’re willing to tolerate in a relationship.

Abusive behavior:

Abusive behavior is never acceptable, one of the clearest red flags in a relationship. If your partner has ever been physically or emotionally abusive, it’s important to get out of the relationship immediately. Abuse is a major breach of trust, and it’s not something that can be fixed with communication or time.

If you’re in an abusive relationship, you must reach out for help. Many resources are available, and you deserve to be safe and happy.

Lack of communication:

Communication is one of the most important parts of a healthy relationship. If you’re unable to communicate effectively with your partner, it can be a major red flag.

Lack of communication can manifest in many different ways. Maybe you and your partner don’t talk about your feelings, or maybe you have different expectations for the relationship. Whatever the case, lack of communication can be a major obstacle in a relationship.

If you cannot communicate effectively with your partner, it’s important to reach out for help. Many resources are available, and you deserve to be safe and happy.

Alcohol or substance abuse:

If your partner is addicted to alcohol or drugs, it’s one of the biggest red flags in a relationship. Addiction can lead to financial problems, communication problems, and emotional distance. It’s important to be honest about what you’re willing to tolerate in a relationship.

If your partner has a drinking problem and refuses assistance, it’s almost as if you’re waiting for a time bomb to explode. On the other hand, if they can recognize the issue and obtain help, this may strengthen your connection.

Gaslighting:

Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse that can be difficult to identify. Gaslighting is when someone tries to make you question your reality. They may lie to you, manipulate you, or gaslight you into thinking you’re crazy.

Gaslighting is a type of manipulation that makes you feel insecure and unsure of your sanity, so trust your instincts if anything appears amiss.

What to Do When You See Relationship Red Flags

If your relationship is abusive or puts you at risk, it’s time to go. That’s your indication to move out immediately. However, with some of the less severe red flags, it might be difficult to determine whether or not you should talk about it with your partner. Here are some tips:

Don’t overlook a red flag:

Don’t ignore it if you sense something amiss or even if it makes you feel a certain way. It’s your mind’s way of raising the alarm. Signs need to be understood. Of course, that is easier said than done. It’s easy to ignore warning signals in a relationship because we want it to succeed this time. Perhaps you’re so caught up in the relationship that you’ve overlooked some red flags.

When you leave gifts on their doorstep, they’re a chance to take a break, assess the circumstances, and decide if you should continue investing time in this person.

Reach out to friends and family:

It’s always a good idea to reach out to your support system if you’re unsure whether or not to confront your partner about a red flag. Talk to your friends and family about what you’re going through. They may have some helpful perspectives that you haven’t considered.

Check-in with yourself:

After you’ve categorized an action or behavior as a red flag, it’s time to do some soul searching on the inside. Of course, you shouldn’t give up your demands to preserve the peace, but there’s also the chance you’re too judging. Take a minute and consider whether you’re being too judgmental or if this is a real deal-breaker.

You’re the only one who can make this decision, but it’s important, to be honest with yourself.

Talk to your partner:

If the problem still concerns you, it’s time to talk with your spouse. If their behavior or feel is offensive and unendurable for you, explain why and how adding that their words or actions may have an impact on others rather than being poorly intended.

A relationship is a two-way street, and both partners must be willing to work on the issues. If your partner refuses to listen or tries to gaslight you, it’s time to walk away.

There are other fish in the sea, and you deserve to be happy. Never let anyone make you feel like you aren’t good enough.

Don’t settle:

If something sufficiently upsets your calm to alter your conduct, you should question whether or not to continue the relationship. If you’ve shared your vulnerabilities, asking for what you wanted, and the behavior or feeling has yet to change, it’s possible that you and this person aren’t suited right now.

If you’re not involved, perhaps it’s best to cut your losses and move on. A red flag simply indicates that you and the other person are incompatible, which is perfectly normal!

Final Note

Dating can be tough, and relationships even tougher. It’s essential to be on the lookout for early relationship red flags. By being aware of these red flags, you can save a lot of heartaches.

If you’re in a situation where you’re being abused or mistreated, reach out to a friend or family member for support. If you’re unsure whether or not to confront your partner about a red flag, reach out to your support system. And finally, don’t settle! You des