When you start dating someone new, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, the butterflies, the late-night conversations, the feeling of being seen. But love isn’t just about sparks.It’s about safety, respect, and how someone treats you when no one’s watching. Today we’re talking about green flags, yellow flags, red flags and some beige flags. How to recognize what’s healthy, what’s concerning, and what’s a deal-breaker in relationships. Whether you’re on your first date or several months in, learning to spot these signs early can help protect your heart, and your peace. Let’s start with the good stuff , the green flags.These are signs someone has emotional maturity, empathy, and genuine intentions. They Respect Your BoundariesWhether it’s physical touch, communication, or alone time, they listen when you say “no” or “not yet.” Open & Honest CommunicationYou can talk about feelings or concerns without fear of being dismissed or punished. Healthy love feels calm, clear, and safe, not confusing or chaotic. Yellow flags don’t always mean “run,” but they’re caution lights.They signal areas that need communication or may reveal deeper issues later on. They Move Too FastThey may use Love bombing by saying “I love you” early, making big promises, or talking about marriage before truly knowing you , can feel flattering but may hide control or insecurity. Inconsistent CommunicationHot and cold behavior, disappearing for days, or unclear intentions. Healthy relationships thrive on stability, not confusion. They Avoid Talking About Feelings or ConflictIf every serious topic is brushed off as “drama” or “too heavy,” emotional intimacy can’t grow. When you see yellow flags, pause, reflect, and communicate. Red flags are the deal-breakers, the behaviors that signal danger, not just difficulty. Control & IsolationThey try to limit who you see, what you wear, or how you spend your time. Manipulation & GaslightingThey twist your words, deny things you know happened, or make you feel “crazy” for bringing up concerns. Disrespect or CrueltyThey insult you, mock your feelings, or use “jokes” that sting. Red flags don’t fade with time or love, they escalate. Beige flags are what seems to be weird to you, quirky or mildly annoying habits in a relationship that are neither good nor bad, but can get on a partners nerves. Reluctance to commit to small promises. Their chewing or eating habits are differentThey may not bath often or have the best hygiene. Remember it’s not your job to “fix” someone who refuses to do the work in a relationship to help it grow. If you’re recognizing yellow or red flags in your relationship, here are a few things you can do starting today: Listen to Your Gut.If something feels off, it probably is. You don’t need proof to trust your intuition. If this episode hit home, please know that you don’t have to navigate this alone. National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) — or text “START” to 88788thehotline.org – Chat online, access safety planning resourcesloveisrespect.org – Great for those who are dating or unsure if what they’re experiencing is healthyDomesticShelters.org – Find local shelters and support networksTherapy Resources: Try searching PsychologyToday.com for trauma-informed therapists near you You can also reach out to your local community centers, survivor groups, or advocates, many offer free, confidential support. Healthy love doesn’t require you to shrink, silence, or sacrifice yourself. If this episode helped you, please share it with someone who might need a reminder that they deserve better.Stay safe and God bless! Mel
