5 important green flags in a relationship
When establishing a relationship, progress isn’t always linear. As you get to know someone more deeply, it’s natural to overthink things or focus on small details.
While red flags can cause worry, it’s also important to recognize the green flags that indicate your relationship is moving in a healthy, positive direction.
1. Being able to have time alone
You should be able to have a life outside of your relationship. It’s healthy to go out with friends without your partner. That might mean a girls’ night out for drinks or a guys’ night watching the game. I believe it’s important to be open with your partner about your boundaries and communicate with them about your plans. Also, being content with yourself and engaging in solo activities like coloring or journaling is valuable. While putting time and effort into your partner, remember to do the same for yourself.
2. Makes you feel emotionally safe
Both of you should feel comfortable bringing up anything to each other without fear of how the other may react. Listen to one another without dismissing each other’s feelings; even if you don’t agree, avoid interrupting. Approach situations gently, without raising your voice or becoming aggressive—it should be a safe space for both of you. Your partner shouldn’t make you feel like you have to keep quiet about an issue, as holding things in can lead to resentment. It’s always better to talk things through.
3. Accountability
When your partner brings up an issue, taking accountability means more than simply saying “I’m sorry” and moving on. It involves having a conversation about why things happened the way they did, taking responsibility without making excuses, and then offering a sincere apology to show you understand what you’re apologizing for. You should strive to understand your partner’s perspective and work to make things right. Don’t let each other go to bed angry over something that can be resolved.
4. Communication
Open up to each other. If you’re feeling down or need alone time, let your partner know rather than leaving them confused. Communicate in advance if you’ll be busy, so your partner doesn’t worry or feel neglected.
5. Keeping the spark alive
As partners spend more time together, it’s easy to fall into routines and stop doing the little things you did in the beginning. It’s important to consistently show your love for each other—keep giving compliments, planning dates, and surprising each other with small gifts. As you get to know each other’s love languages more deeply, use that knowledge to love your partner the way they want to be loved, rather than assuming your efforts are no longer needed.
Now, I’m not saying I’m a relationship expert, but I believe that these are 5 green flags in a relationship. These elements and characteristics can help establish and continue growing a strong and healthy relationship.