Green Flags in Relationships
This month I would like to write a little bit about green flags in a relationship. While there is an abundance of information around red flags, I feel it is relevant to recognize the green ones as well. Green flags are positive signals that you are in a supportive, healthy relationship, and if you are nodding along to these, you are probably in one.
1. Communicating openly and honestly: You can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts without worrying about being dismissed or judged. You can both talk about anything, the whole spectrum from silly to heavy conversations, without guilt or blame.
2. Feeling respected: You feel seen and valued as an equal in the relationship, even when your opinions differ. You can both set clear boundaries and respect them.
3. Being yourself: You both feel you do not need to hide certain parts of yourself to impress your partner. You show off the quirks, flaws, and all, and you still feel loved whilst doing so.
4. Support and encouragement: You both are each other's greatest cheerleaders and have each other back when things go wrong. This is different from being agreeable and permissive, and rather about being there when things fall apart, not pointing fingers or solving problems, but listening and encouraging each other to be a better person.
5. Shared values and goals: This is key. It does not mean you have to be identifiable to your partner, but it does mean that you want the same things out of life, whether it is starting a family or having similar outlooks on what is important.
6. Healthy conflict resolution: There will always be conflicts on this journey that is to be in a relationship. The green flag is that you handle this conflict in a healthy manner. You both listen to each other's views and are able to compromise or find a solution that works for the best of you.
7. Trust and independence: This is not just about cheating or infidelity; it is about trusting each other to maintain your own lives outside the relationship. This could mean you both have your own hobbies, interests, and friendships. This healthy amount of space can actually bring you closer as a couple and is imperative when it comes to healthy relationships.
8. Invested in Growth: This might involve trying new things together, encouraging each other’s personal development, or consistently working to strengthen the relationship. When you’re both eager to grow and evolve, it’s a strong sign that you’re in it for the long run.
9. Feeling secure: You feel confident in your partner's commitment to the extent that you can express your needs, knowing these will be met with understanding. It is about emotional security and feeling safe from harm.
10. Laughing together: Even in tough times you and your partner are able to laugh together, that is a massive green flag. Laughter not only bonds you but can also aid in lightening the mood when things get heavy. Never underestimate the power of laughter, of being able to enjoy each other's company, and of finding joy in the journey you share.
In conclusion, keep in mind that while no relationship is flawless, a good one will have more positive signs than negative ones. It's critical not to forget that, as long as there is love and respect for one another, this is a journey that can be worked on together. Do you have any green flags of your own you would like to share? I would love to hear from you. What small things does your partner do, or do you do for your partner that you consider a green flag? Drop them in the comments below.