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We went grocery shopping. It was about 9pm, we had both just been paid. The young lady in line in front of us had a very young baby, and was paying with WIC coupons and a food stamp EBT card. Her total came to about $22, and she was holding a $20. She looked dejected, and put back the one and only thing that was probably her splurge, a candy bar and an energy drink. Other than that, she had baby food, diapers, chicken, rice, bananas, formula, wipes, the bare minimum. I turned around to tell my now-husband to hand me my wallet.
To learn more about what sparked this conversation in the first place, we reached out to Reddit user EmCWolf13. "I was inspired to ask about 'green flags' because unfortunately, typical discussions about dating and romance focus on negative events and things to avoid," she shared with Bored Panda. "I wanted to get people thinking about the happy experiences they've had, and hopefully encourage a more positive discussion."
We also asked EmCWolf13 about any green flags she has personally come across in her own dating life. "As many of the comments said, a major 'green flag' for me is when a person I'm out with is kind to waitstaff, especially if there's a delay or other circumstance that might cause someone to be snappy or rude," she shared. "Being patient and understanding are qualities I value in a partner."
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"Another 'green flag' is when a potential partner remembers something small about me or brings up a part of our past conversations; it shows that they are paying attention to me and value our time together," EmCWolf13 shared. "For instance, my partner once brought me my favorite type of chocolate bar simply because he had seen it at a store checkout and thought of me. That sort of thing just makes me melt - pun intended!"
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We were also curious what would be considered a deal breaker for EmCWolf13. "In a similar vein, a red flag for me is when a potential partner is rude to others or complains about things that aren't really a big deal - demanding better service from someone who's already trying their best, or mentioning how slow a person is walking, for example," she told Bored Panda.
"How a person treats a stranger can be a good indicator for how they will treat you and your loved ones, and if they get very easily annoyed, that puts me on edge," she noted. "A more 'shallow' red flag would be a person not making an effort to be presentable. Of course, they don't have to be wearing the latest and greatest fashion or fancy brands, but at least be clean and dress accordingly for the activity you have planned together!"
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We also asked EmCWolf13 if she believes an excellent first date can be a sign that two people are meant to be together. "I think a great first date certainly goes a long way towards establishing a relationship that will last!" she shared. "It's all about being comfortable with the other person and finding someone who has a similar 'vibe' so to speak. First dates can be super awkward at times, but it's all about how you two handle anything weird that might happen. If you're both able to approach any conflicts or potential deal-breakers with compassion and understanding, you're well on your way to building a quality relationship."
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We also asked the Redditor if she thinks we should all be looking for "green flags" when dating, as well as red flags. "I definitely think it's important to take a step back and remember the positives when considering a potential partner," she told Bored Panda. "Of course, you don't want to totally disregard something sketchy or a clear incompatibility, but I think we as a society also need to remember that other people are just that: people, like us."
"Giving someone the benefit of the doubt, especially on a first date where they're likely nervous, can lead to opportunities you wouldn't have had if you were too quick to write the person off," EmCWolf13 explained. "Even if you decide not to pursue a relationship, you still get to learn about yourself and figure out what you need from a partner."
#12
1st : Thought he was gonna be my first casual hook up. We were both high as kites when meeting (as you do at a music festival) and the next day WHILE I DEADA** CALLED HIM A DIFFERENT NAME he had already memorized my name & difficult surname and was making plans to see me next weekend .
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"Overall, I think it's beneficial to look for the 'green flags' when dating, as well as throughout daily life," EmCWolf13 shared. "There's so much good in the world, but unfortunately, we're wired to focus on the negatives (thanks, evolution). Consciously looking for positive situations and good qualities in others is a great way to improve your mood and outlook on life. As Mr. Rogers said, 'Look for the helpers. They're always there.'"
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We hope you're enjoying this heartwarming list, dear pandas. Remember never to settle when dating, and keep a close eye out for those green flags. We would love to hear the green flags that made you swoon when you first met your partner in the comments down below, and then if you're interested in reading another article highlighting gorgeous green flags to search for when in a new relationship, you can find that right here!
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