5 Green Flags in Relationships

We hear a lot about what’s bad in relationships, or about the so-called red flags. But what’s important to have in relationships that go the distance? This article will explore the positive indicators, or green flags, to look for that tell us that we are in a safe and healthy relationship.

What Are Green Flags?

While it’s smart to notice any signs of toxic behavior in someone you are dating (like ghosting, gaslighting and love bombing behaviors), it’s also important to pay attention to the good quality aspects of the relationship. Your partner might be taking actions that demonstrate a maturity and commitment to the relationship. These green flags signal that this could be (or become in the near future) a stable, secure, long-term union. Here are five green flags that indicate your relationship is on the right track.

You Trust Each Other

One of the benchmarks of a healthy relationship is deep trust in one another. Your partner is accountable. They follow through consistently—if they say they’ll pick you up, they are there and they are on time. Having trust in your partner is a vital green flag. Trust is an integral component of a healthy romantic relationship. You can rely on this person by not only sharing information about your daily life with them, but by sharing your vulnerabilities and desires with them, too. This level of trust fosters a relationship that is open, honest, and mutually caring.

You Communicate Well Together

If your partner is usually on social media when you speak, they are not showing signs of active listening. But if your partner always makes eye contact and gives you attention when you tell them about your day, that’s a sign of engagement and respect. During a conversation, if they acknowledge and accept your feelings and are being empathetic, they are also at the same time offering you emotional validation. That’s another important green flag. In healthy relationships, both parties must feel accepted and feel as though their private thoughts and feelings matter. "You show respect for yourself and another when you are open, honest, and clear about what you have the capacity for, what you don't, and what you would like to receive for support and care," Kwong says. "If you do not communicate what you want, you may not get it. So be honest about where you are at."