Green Flags In a Relationship: 7 Relationship Green Flags
Written by MasterClass
Last updated: Apr 25, 2022 • 2 min read
Green flags in a relationship are positive things that indicate that your romantic relationship might make it in the long haul. Discover green flags to look out for in your love life.
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What Is a Green Flag In a Relationship?
A green flag in a relationship is a good sign that indicates compatibility and mutual respect. Relationship experts say these subtle yet crucial aspects of a partnership indicate the long-term potential of a couple. During the early stages of dating, reflect on how your partner makes you feel. Recognizing if your significant other does little things to make you feel happy, safe, and secure can strengthen your relationship and help you build a lasting partnership.
7 Examples of Green Flags In Relationships
Green flags show up in different aspects of a new relationship. Some major green flags are:
- 1. Attentiveness: If your partner demonstrates an awareness of your needs, that is a relationship green flag. You and your partner should be attentive to one another, so you both feel satisfied. If your partner is attentive to your love language, they demonstrate a commitment to your well-being.
- 2. Emotional validation: When you’re going through a difficult time, it’s essential to feel safe and secure in your relationship. Your partner should listen to your thoughts and validate your feelings to show they care about you. On the other hand, ignoring or undermining your feelings is a red flag and a sign of unhealthy behavior.
- 3. Mutual respect: In a healthy relationship, each partner respects the other person’s friends and family members. While you and your partner should enjoy spending quality time together, it’s also important to respect each other’s personal space and time with best friends. It’s a green flag if your partner encourages you to spend time doing things you love—even if it means spending some time apart.
- 4. Open communication: Building a strong foundation in a relationship starts with communication. It’s natural to have disagreements with your partner, but how you communicate during a verbal dispute can be illuminating. Healthy forms of communication include feeling comfortable sharing your thoughts, actively listening when the other person is speaking, and acknowledging different opinions. Open communication is also essential for determining whether you and your partner’s aspirations and expectations are compatible.
- 5. Physical affection: Along with sexual compatibility, it’s a good sign if you and your partner show affection in other ways. Holding hands, hugging, or snuggling are ways you and your partner can foster intimacy and demonstrate your love for each other.
- 6. Reciprocal feedback: In a healthy relationship, both partners feel comfortable providing and accepting feedback in a kind, respectful way. Having a sense of personal growth is important for sustaining a long-term relationship. If you and your partner share feedback in a reassuring tone, you can foster mutual growth. It’s also a good sign if your partner listens and implements your feedback without becoming defensive.
- 7. Thoughtful gestures: Making thoughtful gestures a priority is another green flag. While small, kind acts may seem insignificant, they add up over time and show your partner you care. Something as simple as cooking a favorite dinner, sending a supportive message, or spending time together demonstrates you and your partner want to make each other happy.
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