5 Green Flags to Look for in Your Relationship 

1. Respectful Communication

What It Looks Like

You see, one of my friend Ananya and her partner have this uncanny habit of always speaking with kindness, even when they’re disagreeing on something as day to day as where to order takeout from. It’s like they’ve learned to disagree while still being on each other’s team.

Why It’s Important

In the rather colorful circus we call relationships, respectful communication is the juggling act that keeps all the balls in the air. It demonstrates that both parties value each other’s opinions and feelings, even when they don’t match their own, kinda like how some folks appreciate pineapple on their pizza.

2. Supports Personal Growth

What It Looks Like

Imagine watching a plant grow. It starts as a tiny seedling and over time, with the right amount of nutrients, light, and water, it becomes this lush, magnificent tree. A truly green flag relationship feels just like that. It’s like having a constant cheerleader, rooting for your success and personal development. Not in a ra-ra-ra over-the-top way, but through genuine encouragement and shared joy in your achievement.

Why It’s Important

Well, as much as we like to hype up the whole lovey-dovey, you-complete-me narrative, it’s crucial to remember that a healthy relationship is made up of two whole individuals. Being in a loving couple shouldn’t hamper personal growth. Instead, it should be a greenhouse where you can thrive, like tomatoes in the summer sun.

3. Enjoying Shared and Separate Interests

What It Looks Like

Sharing a hobby with your partner can be loads of fun. Picture Bob Ross painting sessions or secret burgers cooking competition a la the movie Chef. But times when you indulge your interests independently are equally priceless. This could look like my friend Diala taking a weekend to explore her love for bird-watching, while her partner is knee-deep in a Star Wars marathon.

Why It’s Important

This green flag asserts that both parties respect each other’s individuality, while still finding joy in shared experiences. It’s like the best of both worlds, chocolate and vanilla swirl, if you will.

4. Healthy Boundaries

What It Looks Like

Healthy boundaries in a relationship are like invisible fences – you can’t see them, but they are there to ensure that neither party feels trampled upon. This could be something as simple as respecting your partner’s ‘me’ time or maintaining confidentiality of shared secrets.

Why It’s Important

Just like fences make for good neighbors, boundaries make for happy relationships. They encourage a space of mutual respect and understanding.

5. Conflict Resolution Skills

What It Looks Like

Ever watched a boxing match? The fighters get into the ring, throw some punches, avoid some hits, take a few hits, and end the round. But at the end of the day, they shake hands or hug it out. That’s a dab hand guide to conflict resolution—getting into it, but always making sure to get out of it together.

Why It’s Important

No relationship is free of conflict. The occasional arguments are like those pesky mosquitos on a summer night—a part of life, whether we like it or not. But how you deal with conflict determines whether the relationship evolves or dissolves. Healthy conflict resolution is like the anti-itch cream—how to soothe the irritation and avoid leaving scars.

Remember, Green flags in a relationship are like the waypoints on a treasure map. They may

• Respectful communication is important as it shows both parties value each other’s opinions and feelings even when they don’t agree.

• Supporting each other’s personal growth is crucial. A healthy relationship should encourage  both individuals to thrive.  

• Having both shared and separate interests allows both parties to respect each other’s individuality while also enjoying shared experiences.

• Healthy boundaries like respecting each other’s alone time ensures neither party feels trampled upon.

• Good conflict resolution skills mean addressing conflict in a constructive way that brings the couple closer together instead of driving them apart.