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How to Spot Red Flags Early in Dating

So, you’ve met someone online, and they actually seem great. Their profile is solid, your messages flow, and they’re the real deal. (If you’re still wondering how to check for scammers, here’s what you need to know.) But now comes the next step – making sure this seemingly wonderful person is actually good for you. 👌

We all want to believe in the best when we’re getting to know someone. It’s easy to brush off a weird comment or an awkward moment, especially when we’re excited about a potential connection. But ignoring warning signs early means setting yourself up for drama later. And who has time for that? Not you! 🙅 Let’s talk about spotting those red flags before they turn into regrets. 👇

🚩They love-bomb like it’s their job 💕💣

Getting showered with compliments feels amazing, right? Someone calls you their soulmate on date two? Says they’ve never met anyone like you? Wants to plan a trip together before you’ve even split a check? It might seem romantic, but slow down. People love-bomb to create a false sense of closeness and pull you in faster. Then, they burn out just as quickly, leaving you with whiplash instead of a relationship. 😖

🚩Their past is always someone else’s fault 🤔

Listen closely when they talk about their exes. If every past relationship was “crazy,” if they were “always the victim,” or if every breakup was “because of the other person,” run. 🚀 No one is perfect, and healthy people take accountability for their part in past relationships. If they only ever paint themselves as the innocent one, guess what? The problem is probably them. 👀

🚩They test your boundaries 🚧

It starts small. Maybe they tease you about something you’re sensitive about. Maybe they push for plans after you’ve already said no. Maybe they "jokingly" suggest something they know you’re uncomfortable with. If you let it slide, they push a little further next time. A good match respects you the first time you set a boundary. Someone who keeps testing yours is seeing how much they can get away with. Spoiler: it only gets worse. 🚨

🚩They’re always the main character 🎭

Some people don’t date – you’re just the audience for their personal movie. Every conversation circles back to them. Your good news barely gets a nod before they shift back to their life. Your bad day? Nothing compared to theirs. If you feel like an extra when you’re on a date, it’s because they aren’t making space for you. And honestly? You deserve better. 🏆

🚩They rush the relationship ⚡

You’ve barely had a second date, and they’re already talking about moving in together? Calling you their partner before you’ve agreed to be exclusive? Pushing for deeper commitment way too soon? Whether it’s insecurity, control, or something more toxic, someone who rushes things isn’t respecting the natural flow of getting to know each other. Good things take time, and that’s okay! 🌱

🚩Their words and actions don’t match 🙅

“I’m really looking for something serious,” they say – while consistently bailing on plans and texting at 2 AM. They promise they’ll call, but don’t. They say they care, but never show up when you need them. Words are easy. Actions tell you everything. Pay attention. 🧐

🚩They make you feel guilty for having a life 🤷

Healthy relationships make space for your independence. If your date guilt-trips you for spending time with friends, acts moody when you don’t text back fast enough, or makes you feel bad for having interests that don’t include them, then they don’t really care about you or your happiness. If they can’t handle you having a life outside of them, they’re not looking for a partner – they’re looking for control. 😬

🚩They bring unnecessary drama 🎢

Dating should be exciting, but it shouldn’t feel like a reality show. If there’s constant tension, sudden mood swings, or unexpected chaos – whether it’s fights with their friends, an “ex who won’t leave them alone,” or a series of suspiciously dramatic personal crises – this is your cue to step off the ride. 👋

🚩They don’t respect your time ⏳

Flaking on plans. Showing up late without a good reason. Leaving you on read for days, only to pop back up like nothing happened. If someone isn’t making an effort to be reliable, they aren’t prioritizing you. And if they don’t prioritize you early on, they never will. Simple as that. 😌

🚩They joke about things that aren’t funny 🙄

Not every bad joke is a red flag, but pay attention to the pattern. Do they “joke” about things that put you down? Do they make weirdly aggressive comments but laugh them off? If they dismiss your discomfort with, “Relax, it’s just a joke,” take it as a sign. People who respect you don’t make you feel small – even in jest. 🎤

🚩They pressure you – about anything 🤯

It doesn’t matter what it’s about – whether it’s going further physically, making commitments, or skipping something important to you. If someone makes you feel bad for taking things at your own pace, they aren’t respecting you. A good match never rushes or pressures. They meet you where you are. 💕

🚩Your gut says something’s off 🫣

Not every red flag comes with flashing lights. Sometimes, it’s just a feeling. If you notice that your mood dips after talking to them, that you’re making excuses for things they say, or that something feels “off” even though you can’t explain it – trust yourself. Your instinct exists for a reason, so listen to it! 💡

So, what do you think? Have you ever spotted a red flag early and dodged a bad match? Or did you ignore one and regret it later? Let us know in the comments! 👇




Comments
Hanna

Agreed

GenuineMentor51edd1

Hi Your profile hits home with me and I like that you seem relaxed and very open. Life is to enjoy, laugh, communicate and have a connection with someone special who has a zest for life and all things in it. I like to be active and I tend to find humor in life. It's my feeling that people need adventure, laughter and passion....Let's talk and see where life takes us..

WhimsicalMe

This is a great article and I definitely agree, should also write one on Green flags, as they are equally as important, knowing both is a life line that will protect you :)

marrt

true

Morgan

Hello,your profile caught my eye. You seem like someone who appreciates good conversation and adventure. I'd love to chat and get to know you better.

Melioom

Hi nice meet you here can we talk here

ken61

very good

ken61

wow i agree

ken61

i totally agree

luv32

Me too

JOY

Great article!

Legs11

Thanks for sharing 💕

Proud

Thanks for sharing 💕

James

Totally agree 👍

Myfi

Great read!

Sunny

Great read!

PlayfulPrince98

I’m interested 😍

PlayfulPrince98

I’m interested 😍

Sam

Love this!

CaptivatingProf22

Totally agree 👍

SparklingCompanionbbeeij

Anyone up for this?

SparklingCompanionbbeeij

Perfect 👌

Shadesh

Love this!

RobyO

Perfect 👌

AmbitiousShark

Thanks for sharing 💕

Penninah

Thanks for sharing 💕

Morales

Anyone up for this?

Sandra

Thanks for sharing 💕

Mary

I’m interested 😍

Yesme

Totally agree 👍

Lmw73

Let’s do it.

Lmw73

Let’s do it.

Lmw73

Let’s do it.

ekenn

Totally agree 👍

ken61

Love this!

ken61

Great read!

ElegantWanderer

Totally agree 👍