Red Flags to Watch Out for in a Relationship

Babes, sit down…we need to talk about Red Flags.

Image Credit: New Line Cinema

Isn’t it so annoying when you are in what you think is a good relationship…and then out of nowhere poof your Prince Charming starts serving villain origin story vibes?

Ugh.

Here’s the thing—some red flags are loud, screaming at you like a car alarm at 3 AM. Others? They’re sneaky little devils, hiding in the seemingly small things that don’t seem like a big deal… until they suddenly are.

So, in true big sister fashion, let me put you on to a few random but MASSIVE red flags that you should never, ever ignore in a relationship. Buckle up. 🚩

1. Aggressive Driving

If he treats the road like a video game, consider it a preview of his temper in real life. Speeding, road rage, tailgating, cursing out other drivers….especially with you (a precious cargo in the car?!) This isn’t just “oh, he’s a little passionate.” It’s a lack of impulse control and an inflated sense of dominance. Today, it’s screaming at a slow driver; tomorrow, it’s yelling at you for something ridiculous. My advice to you is to keep your seatbelt on and exit this ride immediately.

2. He Talks Badly About All His Exes

We get it—some breakups are messy. But if every single ex is "crazy," "toxic," or "obsessed with him," pause and ask yourself: What’s the common denominator here? If he lacks accountability for past relationships, don’t be surprised if you end up being his next “crazy ex” when things don’t go his way.

3. He’s Weird About Your Success

At first, he seems impressed by your ambition. But then come the subtle jabs, the dismissive “must be nice” comments, or the weird energy when you accomplish something big. A secure partner celebrates your wins, not secretly resents them. If his ego can’t handle your glow-up, he’s not the one, babe.

4. He Always Has a Victim Mentality

Nothing is ever his fault, and he constantly complains about bad bosses, fake friends, and a big bad unfair world. Look, we all have tough seasons, but if he’s constantly blaming others and never taking responsibility for his choices, guess who’s going to be at fault in your relationship? (Spoiler: It’s You.)

5. He Tests Your Boundaries For Fun 

It starts small. He playfully ignores your food preferences, pressures you to stay out later when you said you’re tired, or “jokes” about something you’ve told him makes you uncomfortable. If he doesn’t respect the small boundaries, best believe he won’t respect the big ones either.

6. He Loves Bombs You

This one can feel like a fairytale at first. He’s calling nonstop, showering you with gifts, making grand promises early on. But if it feels like too much, too fast, it probably is. Love bombing often sets the stage for control. Once he’s sure you’re hooked, the vibe shifts from romantic whirlwind to manipulative mess.

7. He’s Rude to Service Workers

Watch how he treats waiters, cashiers, Uber drivers. If he’s condescending, snappy, or overly demanding, that’s his real personality showing. Someone who lacks basic kindness to strangers won’t magically become a gentle sweetheart behind closed doors.

8. His Friend Group is… Questionable

You can tell a lot about a person by their inner circle. If all his friends are cheaters, liars, or walking red flags themselves, what does that say about him? Birds of a feather, babe.

9. He Doesn't Respect Your Time

He’s always late, cancels last minute, or takes forever to text back—but expects you to be available whenever he is. Respect for your time is respect for you. Don’t let someone make you feel like an afterthought.

10. You Feel Like You Have to Make Excuses for Him

If you constantly find yourself justifying his behavior to your friends, family, or even yourself, deep down, you already know something’s off. Trust your gut—it’s there for a reason.

Remember….the right relationship won’t have you feeling anxious, confused, or constantly questioning things. Love should feel safe, fun, and uplifting—not like a rollercoaster you can’t get off of. If you spot these red flags, don’t ignore them. Protect your peace, protect your heart, and remember: the right one won’t need you to shrink, settle, or suffer.

Stay smart, stay safe, and keep those standards high! 💖