06 Mar 2022 | 3 mins
Overview
  • We all know what a red flag is in dating -  but have you ever thought about red flag's nicer, hotter and more emotionally available sibling, green flag? 😍
  • Here are some easy ways to suss if you've got yourself a keeper - and how to be the bearer of some green flags of your own ✨

I don't know about you, but when I was in school (and for an embarassing amount of time after) I always went for the bad boys. The emotionally unavailable ones masquerading as 'mysterious'. The ones who gave you breadcrumbs when you deserve the whole loaf. 

But we've all been there, and it takes time to really sit back and notice the array of red flags in front of you. And once you notice - theres no going back! Enter green flags - the positive signs you've been waiting for. Let's suss out everything you need to know and 5 signs to look out for.

What are 'green flags' in dating? 🥴

Relationship green flags are exactly the opposite of red flags. They're the sometimes subtle (or not-so-subtle) signs that the person you're interested in romantically is good to go, worth the effort -  and someone you can feel safe and vulnerable with. 

What do green flags look like? ❤️

Green flags in a healthy relationship can come in all shapes and sizes. But in general, they look like a whole lotta trust, mutual respect and decent communication. Feeling anxious? They're there to support you. Need a hug? They come at you with open arms. Need a friend? They're there to listen and give advice. 

1. They want you to be yourself 🌈

A major green flag is that your cutie wants you to be yourself; goofy, nerdy, hyperactive, creative - whatever being you means. They want you to live your best life and maintain your identity, go out with your mates, see your family and keep up with hobbies and encourage you to keep your independence.

2. They're your biggest cheerleader 📣 

Another HUGE green flag to look out for is that they're super happy for your achievements - big and small. They want you to get that promotion, or to travel if given the opportunity, and only want all the good things for you - even if that means being apart, their interests lie with your happiness.

3. You have similar values

It can be a bit of a deal-breaker to be with someone who has similar values - politically, religiously and everything in between. Though It's ok if they don't, you might have to prepare for some compromises down the road. If you have the same outlook and views on life, you've got green flags for days.

 

4. You respect each other boundaries ✨

If you and your partner respect each others boundaries and listen to each other when you're are feeling uncomfortable, you've got great foundations to build a solid partnership. That might look like sticking up for one another, respecting intimacy boundaries or even just listening to them explain why a certain behaviour is not ok with them. 

5. You're a team 💏

Last but not least, teamwork makes the dream work (sorry, that was terrible). But seriously, if your partner wants to solve issues together you've got yourself a good egg. It's you and them versus the problem - not each other. 

If you spot these green flags in yourself or your partner, you've got it going on - and we're happy for you! 🌈