Relationship Red Flags: When Love Gets Complex

Meeting someone as a potential match for marriage carries its own pressure. Not to mention the countless number of things one has to keep in mind when meeting their potential match: how do I look, am I overdressed, do I come across as too confident or not confident at all, did we pick the right place to meet, etc.? Notwithstanding all these questions running through your head, its important to keep track of some potential “red flags” as you meet the other person and not just dismiss them as not being important enough. Remember, people show us who they are; we just don’t want to believe them!

1. Communication Breakdown: If your partner thinks emojis are the ultimate form of expression, it's time to consider enrolling them in Emoji 101. Healthy relationships thrive on open and honest communication, not cryptic hieroglyphics.

2. Jealousy Jitters: An occasional twinge of jealousy is normal, but if your partner's jealousy is more regular than your daily chai, you might want to switch to herbal tea and reevaluate your choices.

3. Empathy MIA: If your partner needs a GPS to find their way to empathy, you're in for a wild emotional treasure hunt. In a loving relationship, understanding and sharing feelings should be as common as butter on popcorn at the movies.

4. Speedy Intimacy: While chemistry can be electrifying, it’s probably not a good sign if your potential match is in a hurry to jump from zero to "let's move in together” in just one evening. Slow and steady wins the race, and lightning-quick unions can be shocking in more ways than one.

5. Disrespectful Behavior: When your partner thinks your boundaries are more of a suggestion, it's time to remind them that it's your life, not an all-you-can-eat buffet.

6. Ignoring Your Gut Feelings: If your gut has its own sitcom dedicated to warning you about your relationship, it's time to change the channel. Trust your instincts and remember that, amidst all the laughter, a healthy relationship should be built on mutual respect, trust, and open communication.