Finally, the time has come; you’ve decided to meet your match in person and are feeling excited, wondering where things may go from there. However, no matter how much this person impressed you online, you should still be careful before you decide to become exclusive with them. In this article, we’ll talk about first date green flags to look for to help you determine whether you should pursue a relationship with your match.
9 First Date Green Flags To Look For
1. They Are Authentic and Honest
It’s not always easy to freely express your thoughts and emotions on a first date. Truth be told, sometimes it can be difficult to do so even in the company of our loved ones we are already very close with.
So if this person isn’t afraid to be emotionally expressive and can share their thoughts with you, you should consider yourself lucky. Because chances are, a relationship with them will be smoother to navigate.
After all, open communication is one of the most fundamental elements of a happy relationship, so if they are already this open and honest with you, they’ll probably do even better once you start dating.
2. They Encourage You To Be Yourself Around Them
It doesn’t matter whether they do this unconsciously or consciously. Either way, the result is the same; you don’t have to hide yourself whenever you are around them as they make you feel heard and understood.
You are confident that no matter what you tell them, they won’t judge you for it. So hold on to this person if you also notice other positive traits or behaviors they may have.
3. They Are Nice
Pay attention to how they treat those around them. For example, are they rude to the waiter/waitress or treat them just as politely as they treat you?
Some people may be nice to you but that does not necessarily mean they’ll be nice to others as well. So observe if they are also kind to others and not just you. If they seem like a nice person in general while talking to you and also treat others well, it’s likely that they are being their usual self.
4. They Don’t Insult Their Ex Every Opportunity They Get
Now, of course, there are certain types of exes you simply can’t talk nice about, such as cheaters and abusers, just to name a few.
But if your date keeps bad-mouthing their ex for the mere reason that they broke up with them or they didn’t turn out compatible, it can be a sign of their insecurity and self-entitlement. Therefore, you should stay away from this person.
On the other hand, if they don’t say anything bad about their ex and even seem to appreciate what they once had with them, they are likely a good person, understanding that you don’t have to make an enemy out of someone just because you are no longer together.
5. They Know How To Disagree Respectfully
Have you ever been on a date with someone who agrees with everything you say? Then you must know how ingenuine and suspicious this behavior feels.
Chances are, the person is agreeing with you on everything just to impress you. Now, there’s nothing wrong with someone trying to impress you, but needless to say, there are far better ways to do it rather than pretending you’re in sync all the time.
On the other hand, being around a person who has different opinions than you can be refreshing. They can also challenge your way of thinking and widen your perspectives. But most importantly, they will know how to disagree with you respectfully, criticizing your point of view rather than your personality.
6. A Balance Of Similarities And Differences
Some people believe that dating people who are 99% similar to them can ensure they have a happy, healthy relationship. While that may be true in some cases, more often than not, being with someone who almost feels like your own reflection can turn boring quickly.
On the flip side, dating someone who is similar to you in some ways but different in others can make things far more interesting. You can bond over the things you both love and also talk about those only one of you is interested in. This can make your relationship more fun and exciting.
7. They Are Focusing On You Rather Than Their Phone
Don’t you just hate it when you are talking to someone who keeps looking at their phone? Not only is it rude but it can also be a sign of their disinterest.
Maybe they don’t really care to be there in the first place. As if the only reason they agreed to meet you was that someone forced them to or they were just feeling bored with nothing else to do.
On the other hand, if your date is giving you undivided attention and even makes you feel like you are the only one who matters to them right at that moment, then you better take notice of that simple yet wonderful green flag waving in front of you.
8. Your Conversation Flows
Is this person a good, active listener, paying attention to every single thing you say? Are they contributing to the conversation by asking you questions and sharing about themselves? Then they are likely a keeper.
9. They Know How To Respect Your Personal Boundaries
Have you discussed your set of boundaries with this person? Then pay attention to their reaction. Do they ridicule you for it, telling you it’s too much? Or Do they keep your boundaries in mind and respect them as they should? It’s obvious; the former is the red flag to avoid, while the latter is the green flag to embrace.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know what first date green flags to look for, pay attention to the behavior of your date and see how many of them you can spot. The more of these green flags you notice, the more assured you can be that this person can be a good partner and give you what you are looking for in a relationship.
