We often hear about red flags – the warning signs that signal potential trouble in relationships. This time, let's focus on the positive side of the spectrum: the green flags. These are characteristics and behaviors that indicate you're with someone who offers not only the possibility of a long-term relationship but also the potential for mutual growth and enrichment.

While respect is the foundation of any relationship, it’s important to note that this should permeate all aspects of the partnership. Therefore, it won’t be considered separately, as it underpins every point discussed here.

1. You Can Be Yourself

It’s unhealthy to pretend to be someone you’re not when building a relationship, as this can lead to undesirable consequences. However, feeling emotionally safe enough to be your true self is equally important. You should feel free, genuine, and open with your partner, knowing you are accepted, valued, and respected for who you are—your beliefs, life vision, and interests.

Your partner mustn’t lose themselves by overly adapting to you. Each person should maintain their own identity and respect differing opinions. After all, we are all unique individuals.

2. You Feel Safe

Your intuition, your partner’s body language, and even your own bodily responses can tell you a lot. If something feels off, listen to your body. If being with your partner causes discomfort or unease, even if you can’t logically explain it, there may be a reason for it.

3. Your Values Align

There’s a saying: “It’s more important to look in the same direction than to stare at each other.” This is true—if your core values and life goals don’t align, the relationship may be short-lived, based more on physical attraction than long-term compatibility. Actually – the relationship in this case is an illusion. For a deep and meaningful relationship to flourish, both partners need to share a similar vision of the future.

4. You Each Have Your Own Interests

A partner without their passions might adapt too much to you, placing you on a pedestal, and while it may feel flattering at first, it’s a sign they haven’t fully developed as an individual. Over time, they may even blame you for their choices.

On the other hand, a partner with their own interests shows maturity, self-development, and personal goals. They will respect your interests just as much as their own. It’s healthy to have different passions—it shows individuality. And it’s equally essential to maintain your hobbies even after starting a relationship.

5. They Are Clear About Their Feelings

Guessing games have no place in a mature relationship. Both partners should be upfront about their intentions and feelings. If a man is genuinely interested in you, there won’t be any confusion—he will clearly express his feelings and intentions.

6. Words Match Actions

This is simple: Does your partner follow through on what they say? Do their actions align with their promises? Words should not carry more weight than deeds. Actions reveal true intentions and character. If there is a disconnect between what was promised and what was delivered, it’s a clear sign of what to expect moving forward.

If someone is constantly talking about future plans without acting on them, it’s merely fantasizing. Don’t be swayed by excuses or promises of “someday.”

7. Openness to Communication

If there are certain “off-limits” topics or if conversations frequently lead to resentment, the relationship can’t grow in depth. While some issues may be left in the past, a healthy relationship allows for open, empathetic communication. Being able to listen and understand each other, without defensiveness, is crucial for emotional intimacy. Walking on eggshells around delicate topics isn’t a feature of a mature relationship.

8. Emotional Intelligence

An emotionally intelligent partner knows how to handle their emotions, even unpleasant ones like anger, constructively. They can express their feelings without resorting to aggression, criticism, or passive-aggressive behavior. Emotionally intelligent individuals understand that they are not defined by their emotions, but can instead use them as guides. They also show empathy toward others, recognizing and accepting their emotions as well.

9. They Make Time for You

A mature partner knows how to prioritize the relationship within their busy life. While it’s important to respect each other’s individuality, work, and personal space, a man committed to a long-term relationship will plan and schedule quality time with you. Even after years together, it’s crucial to nurture the relationship by dedicating time to romantic, shared experiences.

10. Respecting Boundaries

Boundaries, whether emotional or physical, are deeply personal and must be honored. For example, it’s essential to respect time spent alone or with friends, and both partners should communicate about responsibilities and expectations, without assumptions or pressure.

11. There’s No Rush

Building a meaningful relationship takes time. True intimacy grows from getting to know each other’s character, values, and quirks—something that can’t be rushed. Beware of “love bombing”—excessive flattery, gifts, and intense declarations early on. This can be a sign of manipulation rather than genuine affection. A healthy relationship develops at a natural pace.

12. Responsibility and Trust

A relationship built on responsibility is actually one of freedom. When we take responsibility for our choices and actions, we’re empowered to shape our lives. In a partnership, this means being accountable to each other and respecting the trust that’s been given. Trust is a vital skill, and it’s one of the highest values a relationship can have.

13. You Build Each Other Up

Relationships are like a delicate plant—they require consistent care, attention, and love to grow. When you start a relationship or marriage, it’s not the end of the story; it’s the beginning. Both partners should inspire each other toward self-growth and becoming their best selves. A healthy relationship is one where you elevate and support each other, growing closer emotionally and spiritually over time.

Author: Ieva Simanoviča