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Jakarta – Red flags are warning signs that suggest potential issues, concerns, or problems in situation, relationship, or context. There may be unhealthy patterns or behaviors between you and your parner.
Your partner damage your well-being instead of making it better. Some can even be toxic like gaslighting, manipulation, and it’s important to recognize the red flags.
Well, here's your guide to learn common red flags when dating or in relationship, and how to avoid them.
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- pixabay
1. Lack of trust
Trust is an important foundation in any healthy relationship. A major sign of an unstable relationship is when partners, friends, colleagues, or family members distrust you.
Obviously, we all have doubts sometimes. But they shouldn't stop us from trusting the people in our lives to do the right thing. Healthy relationships require trust on both sides.
2. Physical, emotional, or mental abuse
Physical, emotional, and mental abuse are undeniable red flags in any relationship. Physical abuse is easier to pick up. But emotional and mental abuse can be just as damaging in the long run. And just like physical abuse, mental and emotional abuse can cause PTSD.
Nobody ever has the right to use you as a scapegoat for their own problems. Those should be dealt with constructively and fairly. Abuse is never an acceptable response to a problem.
3. Narcissim
Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental condition that indicates self-obsession and a misplaced sense of importance. It can come across as delusions of grandeur, although not in a clinical sense.
They are not experiencing a break from reality, although it might feel that way to the people close to them.
Narcissists believe that the world revolves around them. And if anybody threatens this belief, turmoil and chaos tend to follow.
Being emotionally involved with a narcissistic, ego-driven person can be exhausting and traumatizing. Their needs will always be considered more important than yours.
4. Inability to resolve conflict
People that avoid conflict might think they are protecting the relationship from ruin. But in the end, it only results in long-winded passive aggression.
As uncomfortable as it can be, embracing constructive conflict is a crucial element of all relationships. Without productive conflict, serious matters can never be resolved. This can lead to resentment and wasted energy.
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5. Gaslighting
Gaslighting is a common manipulation tactic and a red flag in any relationship. It is an insidious form of emotional abuse in which the manipulator will make you question your own sanity or judgments.
Victims of gaslighting are made to feel guilty regardless of whether or not they did anything wrong. Gaslighting is a clear red flag in any relationship.
The effective tips to help you avoid red flags when dating:
1. Trust Your Instincts
One of the most powerful tools you have in dating is your intuition. If something doesn't feel right or raises concerns, pay attention to those feelings. Your instincts can often pick up on subtle cues that your conscious mind may not yet recognize.
2. Communication is Key
Don't be afraid to have open and honest conversations with your partner about your concerns. Express your feelings and observations calmly and respectfully. Effective communication can help clarify intentions and address issues early on.
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3. Set and Maintain Boundaries
Establish clear boundaries for what you are comfortable with in a relationship. Be firm about your deal-breakers and stick to them. Healthy boundaries are essential for maintaining self-respect and ensuring your emotional and physical well-being.
4. Seek Advice from Trusted Friends
Share your dating experiences and concerns with friends or family. They can provide valuable perspectives and help you see things from an objective point of view. Sometimes, those who care about you can spot red flags that you may have missed.
5. Prioritize Self-Care
It's essential to take care of your own well-being. This includes maintaining a strong sense of self, engaging in activities you enjoy, and investing time in your personal growth and development. A healthy self-esteem and self-worth can make it easier to recognize and respond to red flags.
