How to Spot Red Flags in Early Dating: Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

Love is a fundamental part of our lives. It gives us a purpose to live, and meaningful connections add value to our mundane lives. However, many couples in the honeymoon phase of their relationships tend to turn a blind eye to dating red flags. While love is a beautiful feeling, not every relationship turns out to be healthy. Some relationships, over time, create trust issues, anger issues, unhealthy obsession, manipulation, and whatnot.

So, how do you watch out for relationship warning signs at the earliest stage of being together? It is not easy, especially when you may ignore your partner's negative features. Love is a strong force that overpowers red flags. You might give them a second chance, and then a third chance, and then more, all while discarding your mental health. And the end product of this will definitely not be a pleasant surprise.

So, if you are new to in-person or virtual dating, we are going to walk you through the early dating mistakes you need to avoid and red flags to watch out for in a relationship.

What are dating red flags?

Dating red flags are warning signs indicating the manipulation and controlling behavior of your significant other. You will not recognize these signs from the get-go. But as you spend more time with them, you will learn things about your partner that define “toxicity.”

This toxicity often presents itself in different forms, including but not limited to narcissism, victim mindset, aggression, manipulation, and, in the worst-case scenario, even physical abuse. This behavior often creeps out during moments of weakness, insecurity, and vulnerability.

When you notice the first dating red flag in your partner, make sure you do not let it slide. Take a moment to reflect on it, and decide if you will be okay with it long-term, especially if there are repeated patterns of toxic behavior. Because at the end of the day, nothing is worth taking a toll on your mental health.

Early-stage relationships will often cloud your judgment because of the growing feelings. You may overlook the relationship warning signs, and wait for them to change. But oftentimes, the change you wait for never really happens. This is why you must avoid early dating mistakes to build a meaningful connection that will last for a long time.

Common Red Flags to Watch Out for in Early Dating

While some toxic behavior may present itself as a minor issue in the beginning, it indicates a bad relationship warning sign you need to watch out for. Here is a list of the dating red flags you must address right when you notice it.

Actions and promises never align

When your partner promises you something but fails to do it, take a note of that. Now, this does not mean they do not have a genuine reason. But if this happens multiple times, it highlights a red flag because actions often reflect true intentions.

For example, you plan a date together, but they take a rain check at the last moment, and this is not the first time it happened. And, you see them keeping up with other plans.

Sending “mixed” signals and lack of real communication

One of the early dating mistakes many make is not reading between the lines. Know when someone is really interested in you and when someone is just giving you enough attention to keep you hooked. If your partner always claims to be “too busy” without any specific explanations, it is not worth it.

A ten-minute call to explain the circumstances does not hurt. It is the bare minimum you MUST expect from your partner. Do not degrade your worth just because of their “busy” schedule.

A narcissistic personality and self-centered behavior

If you notice signs of narcissism in early dating, that is, you find your partner constantly talking about themselves, it is a big dating red flag.

Do they not ask you little things like “how are you?”

Do they only boast about themselves?

Do they show no sign of empathy when you are hurt or going through a difficult episode?

That, right there, is a narcissistic personality. Ignoring these traits with the hope they will “change” can be dangerous to your mental health. You need to call off the relationship before it is too late.

Unhealthy relationship dynamics

While a little jealousy in relationships is often considered “cute,” too much of it can lead to toxicity. It manifests in controlling behavior. Note that “love” and “possessiveness” are two different things. Love is healthy, possessiveness is not. You need a partner you can confide in, not someone you constantly worry about because something might anger or make them jealous.

This is a sign of an unhealthy relationship. It may stop you from growing as a person because your partner's controlling behavior will always keep you in the cage.

They have an “ex” problem

If you find that your partner is talking about their ex on a daily basis, and comparing you to them, it is a serious dating red flag. Be extra cautious if they are still emotionally involved with their past lover, for example, they are still friends with their ex, text them, and make excuses to stay in touch with them.

You need to walk out of this relationship as it can lead to trust issues. The inability to emotionally detach themselves from their ex indicates they still have unresolved feelings for them. This can impact their relationship with you.

How to respond when you spot the first dating red flag?

Now let's say it is your first month of being together and it has been lovey-dovey until now. But, one specific day, you notice a red flag in your partner. How do you address it? Do you just break up with them right there? This is a bit more complex.

It can depend on the red flag they represent. For example, if you caught them cheating on you, that should be an instant break up. No explanations are required.

But if their red flag manifests in jealousy, if it is the first time, you will most likely be flattered. However, you need to watch how they control their jealousy. Do they show anger towards you? Or do they act like a baby? It totally depends.

If you did not like something your partner did, discuss it with them. If they are open to change and show results within a week, they are a keeper. But, if they promise to change but repeat things regardless of your multiple warnings, leave them.

Do not make excuses to stay in an unhealthy relationship, especially if your partner does not value your needs.

Why is ending an unhealthy relationship important? (Even if it is hard)

Cutting ties early with the wrong person can save you from long-term emotional pain. It will also open up doors to find a partner who values you and respects you. Staying within a relationship past its expiration date will emotionally exhaust you, and fill you with resentment.

The earlier you end it, the more peaceful it is, for both of you. There is no point in holding out hope that someone will change for you.

Recognizing and acting on dating red flags does not make you over-dramatic. It shows that you respect yourself. Be confident in your worth and do not “sell” yourself to the wrong person or settle in a relationship that does not align with your emotional needs.

To Wrap Up

Recognizing dating red flags early in a relationship can save you from unnecessary emotional turmoil. While love can be blinding, it's important to listen to your instincts and address unhealthy behaviors before they become toxic. By maintaining open communication and setting boundaries, you ensure that your emotional well-being is respected. Remember, you deserve a relationship where both partners grow and thrive together. Don't be afraid to walk away from red flags and prioritize your happiness.

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