The Ideal Relationship. We all want it. But can we describe it? What does it look — and feel — like?
For starters, let’s take a look at the not-so-ideal relationship. Many of us have a habit of ignoring the “red flags” that could save us from a lot of heartache.
If you are a guy, here are a few clues that you may be headed for disappointment:
- Constant Comparisons: She talks about her past relationships all the time, not only to you, but in her conversations with your friends — whom she’s just met.
- Poor Boundaries: She can’t keep her hands off of you and constantly caresses you in public.
- Avoiding Feedback: You avoid asking your friends what they think of her.
- Fools Rush In: She tells you she wants to — or you feel compelled to — get married in less than a year.
- Lack of Support: You don’t have a full-time job, and she doesn’t either.
- Instant Family: She has children (under 18 years of age) from another relationship.
- Baby Boom: She’s approaching (or has reached) 40 years of age and is anxious to have a baby right away.
- Too Good to Be True: You met on eHarmony.com (or another internet dating site), so you must be a perfect match!
There are lots of other “red flags.” What “red flags” have you ignored in previous relationships … or are ignoring now? Drop me a note by clicking the “Leave a Comment” link above! I’ll address some of these red flags in the days ahead.
Blessings,
Dr. Debi Smith
The Couples Psychologist