What are Some Relationship Green Flags?

A lot of folks are familiar with the term “red flag” as it relates to relationships. A red flag is indicative of something unhealthy in a relationship. It can be something that gives a person pause, could indicate a relationship is past its expiration date, or could act as a warning of unhealthy or even harmful behaviors.  

While it is important to be mindful of red flags, it is also important to know what “green flags” can look like. A green flag is indicative of healthy behavior in relationships, and thinking about them can help you navigate healthy communication, trust, and respect in all types of interpersonal dynamics. 

One important thing to note: Both healthy and unhealthy behaviors can exist in a single relationship, and the presence of any green flags do not negate the red flags.  

Some examples of green flags are: 

• Treating each other as equals. 
• Taking time to calm down before talking when upset.  
• Respecting each other’s hobbies. 
• Making space for the other’s friends and social lives. 
• Making sure everyone in the relationship is treated fairly. 
• Listening to understand each other (as opposed to listening for a chance to talk). 
• Supporting each other’s goals, even if they are different from our own. 
• Committing to being self-reflective in relationships. 
• Compromising fairly. 
• Communicating our boundaries and respecting each other’s. 
• Practicing consent in all aspects of our relationships. 
• Seeking mutually satisfying resolutions to conflicts. 
• Mutually agreeing on a fair distribution of work 
• Making sure partners all benefit from financial arrangements.  
• Committing to honesty.