Relationship Red Flags

Relationship Red Flags

Soon it will be Valentine’s Day.

We commemorate this day for Love, most often romantic love. However, there are many forms of love: Sibling love, Friendship love, Parent/child love, Pet love, Self-love, Thing love and God Love.

However, we mostly think of Valentine’s Day as romantic love. Love is a feeling and love is a choice. And “Falling in love” can be an accident. Know who you are looking for in a relationship. Make a shopping list of qualities. And know your red flags:

Relationship red flags

There are many abuses that will destroy a relationship and break trust. Consider these as red flags in a relationship. These abuses may also become the cornerstone of your decision to enter or leave a relationship. We all deserve safe, honest and loving partners.

5 Basic Abuses

Verbal Abuse may be name calling, cursing, putting down, yelling and shouting.

Physical Abuse may be hitting, punching, pushing, shoving, hair pulling and body shaming are also physical abuse.

Emotional Abuse is characterized by manipulation, gaslighting, threats and controlling often causing self-doubt.

Financial Abuse includes withholding monies, controlling spending, providing an allowance, not discussing finances or making financial decisions together.

Sexual Abuse includes forcing sex, demanding or refusing sex, body shaming, not respecting the sexual boundaries and infidelity.

When entering a relationship, keep in mind that dating is about exploring who this person is. Make a shopping list of what you want and need in a relationship. Recognize that some things are a must have while others are a would like to have. Love is a choice to make with someone who is compatible, fun, sexy and safe and who demonstrates respect, responsibility, maturity and empathy.