It’s the season of LOVE!
Love is in the air, and what better time to celebrate the positive aspects of your relationship than by acknowledging its green flags? But we’re not just talking about romantic relationships. We’re talking about your girlypops and your broskies too!
These days, many of us are quick to call out red flags in the relationships we see unfolding around us. As important as those are, let’s also focus on the green flags.
What’s a red flag?
A red flag is an sign of a potentially unhealthy relationship. Think of it like a traffic light: red means “stop and watch out.”
What’s a green flag?
A green flag is a behaviour or personal quality that indicates the person you’re with will likely approach relationships in healthy and mature ways in the future. The term comes simply from the idea that green means “good to go.”
Knowing what to be wary of in relationships can be important in helping us avoid harmful situations. At the same time, it’s just as important for us to be able to recognize what healthy relationships look like too. That way, we can start to move towards people who display these healthy qualities from the get-go, and be more likely to find ourselves in the kind of relationships that actually feel good.
So let’s talk about some green flags in relationships, the signs that you’ve got someone you can count on.
1. They get along with the people closest to you
Whether it’s a new partner getting to know your bestie or a new friend meeting your siblings, it’s important that they put in effort to get to know your circle. It shows how they care about the people who made you, you.
2. They know you have other friends
They know your world doesn’t revolve around them. They don’t expect you to spend all your time with them, because they know how important it is for you to also hang out with your other friends.
3. They communicate openly
If they’re having a bad day, they’ll let you know how they feel. Or if you hurt their feelings, they’ll talk to you about it. And if they don’t have the energy to listen to you vent, they’ll tell you. The best people are those who are honest and transparent while still being there for you.
4. They support your me-time
They understand how sometimes you need your alone time. They respect your individuality and they know you’re your own person. Sometimes you just need to read a good book while being wrapped in your blanket like a burrito… and that’s okay.
5. They’re your cheerleader
They’re happy for your wins, your milestones and your achievements. They pull you up when you’re down, and they’re there for you through it all. You know you have a good one when they encourage you to pursue your goals.
6. They stand up for you
They’re on your team whether you’re in the room or not. They know you the best and they defend you when your character is put into question. Friends aren’t just cheap therapists, they’re lawyers too.
7. They support your growth
They value you and want you to grow. They push you to face your fears, to recognize your flaws and become the best version of you that you can be. And that’s on what? Period.
So this Valentine season, cherish your healthy relationships and tell your friends you love them.
The Lilac Blog 