Red Flags to Watch for While Dating

Dating is such a wonderful, exciting and confusing time! New couples are trying to get to know each other. They are on their best behavior, putting their best feet forward. But as times goes by and the euphoria of new love tones down a bit, sometimes red flags start going up. Is love blind? Should love be blind? Definitely not! You need to recognize important signs that your relationship might not be everything you want. If you don't heed the warning signs, you may end up in a long-term relationship or even marriage that makes you unhappy. Life is short and no one needs that.

Possessiveness

At first, being with someone who is possessive might seem flattering in that they want your attention all the time. But make no mistake, it's a red flag you don't want to ignore. Their desire to control can become very strong and may eventually lead to trying to isolate you from your family and friends. And their degree of possessiveness will probably only grow stronger as times goes by.

Jealousy

Jealousy is another trait that might seem flattering to start, but gets old real quickly. A person who is extremely jealous usually has some insecurity issues to deal with. If you have to watch what you say for fear of sending your partner into a jealous rage, you should run away fast.

Drugs and/or Alcohol Addiction

Dependence on drugs or alcohol is a major red flag to watch for. Addictions are strong and as much as we might like to think that we can help the person we're dating to overcome drug or alcohol dependence, it usually can't be done unless the person wants help. To become seriously involved with a person with this type of addition is just asking for trouble.

Wandering Eye

Dating someone with a wandering eye can be very upsetting, irritating, maddening, etc. If that person is constantly checking out other people while they are with you, imagine what they are doing when you're not there. If you want a partner who makes you feel cared for and loved like you're the only one, someone with a wandering eye is definitely not that person.