11 Dating Red Flags You Shouldn't Ignore

The early days of dating someone new are always exciting and full of possibilities. But they can also be dangerous if you set your hopes too high and focus only on the good, ignoring critical warning signs. Here are 11 dating red flags you should never ignore.

Your Conversations Fall Flat

Communication is one of the most important factors in a relationship, so if you have a hard time making conversation in the beginning, it's a bad sign. It could mean that either you have little in common, or that one or both of you is a poor communicator.

You Feel Pressured

A good partner will never push you to take relationship steps you're not ready for, or to go too far too fast in the bedroom. If you're feeling pressured by your partner in any aspect of the relationship, talk to them and explain your feelings. If they don't back off, run.

They're Glued to Their Phone

If your partner can't be bothered to look up from their phone when you're talking to them or when you're on a date, it could be a bad sign about their priorities. You don't want to come second to a smartphone.

They're Only Nice to You

If your partner is nice to you, but not nice to other people, guess what? They're probably not a nice person. Pay attention to how they treat strangers. If they are disrespectful or rude, chances are they will eventually act the same way towards you.

They're Irresponsible

In the first few weeks of dating, you should get a glimpse into whether your partner has the life skills they should have at their age. If they can't cook, clean, or pay their bills (and they don't have a good reason), it will feel like you're dating a child.

They Don't Respect Your Opinions

You don't have to agree on everything, but your partner should never shame or berate you for your differing opinions. A good partner respects your differences and won't try to control your opinions.

They Bring Up Their Exes

It's natural that, over the course of dating, you will learn about your partner's past. But if they are often bringing up their exes - or even worse, comparing you to an ex, it could be an indication that they're not over the relationship.

They Cause Drama

If you find that your partner is stirring up trouble or playing games with you early on, run! Some people just thrive on causing drama, and you're in for a never ending rollercoaster of emotions if you build a relationship with them.

They're a Closed Book

Some people are naturally shy and it may take time for them to open up to you. But if it's been weeks and you still haven't learned anything personal, they may be too withdrawn and secretive to make a good partner.

You Don't Make Each Other Laugh

Relationships take hard work, but you should also be having fun. If you find your relationship is devoid of laughter, it may be that your senses of humor just don't mesh well. If you can't laugh together, your relationship will quickly become boring.

It Just Doesn't Feel Right

The truth is, you don't need to have a specific reason to break up with someone. If things just don't feel right, or if you're not happy, it's probably best to end the relationship. Trust your intuition and don't get stuck in a relationship that doesn't satisfy you.

Ultimately, all relationships are different. Something that might be a red flag in one relationship may be seen as just a minor flaw in another. But if your partner is exhibiting one or more of these red flag signs, don't ignore it. Weigh the pros and cons of the relationship and decide if the red flag is a relationship deal breaker. Remember, if something feels wrong, it probably is - always trust your gut!