7 Signs You Are Dating the Right Person (And 3 Red Flags to Watch For!)

Great partners shine green; toxic ones flash red. Know the signs.

Dating is tricky. Sometimes, it feels like wandering through Walmart without the arrows to guide you. How do you know you’re heading in the right direction? Here are seven signs that say, “You’ve found someone amazing!”—and three red flags you shouldn’t ignore.

The 7 Signs You’re Dating the Right Person

1. They Respect Your Boundaries

Whether it’s about needing alone time or saying no to pineapple on pizza, the right person will respect your choices without making you feel guilty. Respect is more than just listening—it’s about showing they value your individuality. If they can adapt to your needs without complaint, it shows they’re emotionally mature and invested in your happiness.

Healthy boundaries create a strong foundation for trust and understanding. For example, if you prefer spending time with friends every weekend, they don’t guilt-trip you. Instead, they’ll support you because they understand that personal space is key to maintaining a balanced relationship. Respecting boundaries also extends to the little things, like not snooping on your phone or prying into your private thoughts before you’re ready to share them.

2. They’re Genuinely Supportive

Got big dreams like starting a business? The right partner cheers you on instead of competing or dragging you down. They celebrate your wins as if they’re their own and provide a shoulder to lean on during tough times. Their support isn’t conditional—it’s genuine and unwavering.

Take Sarah. When she told her boyfriend about switching careers, he didn’t just say, “That’s cool.” He helped her revamp her resume, practiced interview questions, and popped open champagne when she landed the job. That’s next-level support. Even the little things—like texting you good luck before a big meeting—show they’ve got your back.

3. They Communicate Clearly and Openly

Communication isn’t just about texting back promptly. It’s about sharing their feelings, listening to yours, and working through disagreements in a way that brings you closer rather than tearing you apart. When misunderstandings happen—and they will—the right person focuses on resolving issues calmly instead of escalating them.

For example, instead of saying, “You always make me feel ignored,” they might say, “I felt hurt when you didn’t acknowledge my comment earlier.” This approach invites constructive conversation rather than defensiveness. Communication also means discussing your future openly—whether about your shared goals or your weekend plans—to ensure you’re always on the same page.

4. You Feel Safe Being Yourself

Do you feel you can let your guard down without fear of judgment? The right person makes you feel comfortable being silly, serious, or vulnerable—because they love all parts of you. Being with them feels like coming home.

Imagine laughing until your stomach hurts because you can share your quirkiest thoughts without hesitation. Or being able to cry in front of them without worrying they’ll think less of you. Emotional safety is priceless, and it’s a sign you’ve found someone special. This sense of safety also extends to trying new things together, whether it’s a dance class or a cross-country road trip—you know they’ve got your back.

5. They Prioritize Your Relationship

Life gets busy, but the right partner doesn’t treat your relationship like an afterthought. They make time for you, plan date nights, and enjoy spending time together. Actions speak louder than words, and their consistent effort shows they value what you have.

Consider how they handle their schedule. Do they carve out time for you even during a hectic week? Do they surprise you with small gestures, like bringing your favorite coffee or planning a picnic? These actions reflect their commitment to keeping the spark alive. Even when life throws curveballs, their dedication to the relationship doesn’t waver, showing you’re a priority in their life.

6. They’re Kind to Others

Want a sneak peek at someone’s true character? Watch how they treat waiters, coworkers, or even a stranger on the street. Genuine kindness shows they’re empathetic and respectful, traits that translate beautifully into a healthy relationship. Someone rude to others but sweet to you might not maintain that facade forever.

For instance, if they’re patient with the barista who messed up their order or helped an elderly neighbor carry groceries, it’s a reflection of their character. Kindness isn’t just a bonus—it’s a must-have trait in a long-term partner. Bonus points if they go out of their way to make others smile—it’s a sign of a genuinely good heart.

7. You’re a Team

When problems arise, they don’t turn into a blame game. Instead, they focus on finding solutions together. Whether it’s splitting chores or tackling life’s bigger challenges, you work as partners rather than opponents.

Being a team means you celebrate wins together and face challenges head-on. It’s about having each other’s backs, whether dealing with a financial hiccup or planning a family vacation. Teamwork makes the dream work—and the best relationships thrive on this principle. You’ll find yourselves saying “we” more often than “I,” a subtle yet powerful indicator of unity.

The 3 Red Flags You Can’t Ignore

1. They Dismiss Your Feelings

If they brush off your concerns with phrases like, “You’re overreacting” or “It’s not a big deal,” take note. A healthy relationship involves validating each other’s emotions, even when you don’t fully understand them. Dismissing your feelings erodes trust and leaves you feeling unheard.

For example, imagine expressing frustration about work, only for them to respond with, “You’re just being dramatic.” Over time, this behavior can make you feel like your emotions aren’t important, which isn’t healthy. Everyone deserves to feel heard and valued in their relationship.

2. They’re Inconsistent

Hot and cold behavior can be emotionally exhausting. If their actions don’t align with their words—one day they’re all-in, the next they’re distant—it’s a sign of instability you shouldn’t ignore. Consistency is key to building trust and security in a relationship.

For instance, if they cancel plans frequently or change their tone depending on their mood, it’s worth considering whether they’re truly invested. A reliable partner doesn’t leave you second-guessing their intentions. Their predictability—in a good way— keeps the relationship strong.

3. They Avoid Accountability

Do they always have an excuse when something goes wrong? Or worse, do they blame you for everything? Refusing to take responsibility for their actions isn’t just a red flag—it’s a giant neon billboard screaming, “Run!”

Accountability is a cornerstone of any healthy relationship. If they can’t admit when they’ve made a mistake or apologize sincerely, it’s a sign they lack the maturity needed for a long-term partnership. For example, if they constantly blame you or external factors for their mistakes, it shows a lack of self-awareness. A partner who can’t own up to their actions will struggle to grow alongside you.

Trust Your Gut

Love should feel like teamwork, not guesswork. You’re probably on the right track if the green lights outshine the red flags. Remember: you deserve someone who brings out the best in you and makes life’s journey wholesome. Always trust your gut—it’s usually spot on when it comes to matters of the heart.