10 dating red flags that should send you running

Dating can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be a minefield of potential problems. It's important to know the red flags to look out for when you're getting to know someone new, so you can avoid wasting time on a relationship that's going nowhere or worse, getting involved with someone who could be dangerous. In this article, we'll outline ten dating red flags that should send you running in the opposite direction.

1. Lack of communication

Communication is key in any relationship, but especially in the early stages of dating. If your date is consistently slow to respond to your messages or doesn't seem interested in having deep conversations, it could be a sign that they're not invested in the relationship. Lack of communication can also be a red flag for emotional unavailability.

2. Controlling behavior

If your date tries to control what you wear, who you talk to, or where you go, it's a major red flag. Controlling behavior is a sign of insecurity and can quickly escalate into abuse. Don't ignore warning signs like jealousy, possessiveness, or attempts to isolate you from friends and family.

3. Dishonesty

Honesty is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and if your date lies about small things, they'll lie about big things too. If you catch your date in a lie, don't ignore it confront them and see how they react. If they become defensive or try to justify their behavior, it's a sign that they're not trustworthy.

4. Disrespectful behavior

If your date makes racist, sexist, or homophobic comments or treats service staff poorly, it's a major red flag. Disrespectful behavior shows a lack of empathy and can be a sign of deeper character flaws. Don't ignore warning signs like this they're clear indicators that your date is not a good match for you.

5. Inconsistent behavior

If your date is hot and cold, blowing hot one minute and then ignoring you the next, it's a sign that they're not emotionally mature enough for a relationship. Inconsistent behavior is a red flag for emotional instability and can be exhausting to deal with in the long term.

6. Addiction issues

Addiction issues can take many forms from substance abuse to compulsive gambling or gaming. If your date has addiction issues, it's important to approach the situation with compassion and understanding but it's also important to set boundaries and protect yourself from potential harm.

7. Lack of ambition

If your date lacks ambition and drive, it could be a sign that they're not ready for a serious relationship. A lack of ambition can indicate a lack of motivation or direction in life and if your goals don't align, it's unlikely that you'll be able to build a fulfilling future together.

8. Refusal to compromise

Compromise is essential in any healthy relationship but if your date refuses to compromise or insists on having their own way all the time, it's a major red flag. Refusal to compromise can indicate a lack of respect for your needs and desires and over time, it can lead to resentment and conflict.

9. Anger issues

If your date has anger issues or tends to fly off the handle easily, it's a major red flag. Anger issues are a sign of emotional immaturity and can quickly escalate into verbal or physical abuse. Don't ignore warning signs like this they're clear indicators that your safety could be at risk.

10. Lack of self-awareness

Self-awareness is essential in any healthy relationship but if your date lacks self-awareness or is unwilling to work on their own personal growth, it could be a sign that they're not ready for a serious commitment. A lack of self-awareness can make it difficult to communicate effectively and can lead to misunderstandings and conflict.