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Topics: Sex and Relationships
Kimberley Bond
Topics: Sex and Relationships
The path to true love never did run smooth, and dating looks to set to get even more difficult in 2022.
Not only do we have to look out for red flags – major warning signs that you should absolutely dump your new beau, but according to dating experts we should now also start looking out for pink flags.
So, what are pink flags exactly? Well, according to Jessica Alderson, the relationship expert and co-founder of dating app So Synced describes them as “minor areas of concern” – but can boil over into something bigger.
“They are indications that the relationship might not be right or that it will take some work,” she tells Tyla. “Pink flags are not to be ignored but they aren't necessarily deal breakers.
“Red flags are serious indicators that you aren't right for each other. Pink flags are smaller issues that need to be monitored and there's a good chance that you can resolve the issues if you are both willing.”
Examples of what constitutes a pink flag will differ between each couple, but some that may arch eyebrows include “watching too much TV”, which could suggest you’ve run out of things to talk about.
Other “pink flags” could also include not wanting to feature on your social media; they may be reluctant to be pictured with you, or you’re not being as physical as you used to be: you may not be making enough time for each other.
Strangely enough, not arguing could be a pink flag: it could potentially mean you’re living separately, or just coasting without having any real passion.
But unlike red flags, Jessica argues that pink flags can be resolved in relationships – and all it takes is a good, honest discussion.
“When you first notice a pink flag, it isn't a deal breaker in itself, it depends on what happens next,” she says. “If there are more pink flags popping up or if the initial pink flag is morphing into a red flag, that's a bad sign.
“If you have talked about the pink flags and resolved the issues, that's actually a great sign because it means that there's a higher chance that you'll be able to overcome relationship speed bumps in the future.
“Ultimately, it's essential to communicate as soon as you notice pink flags because then you give yourselves the best chance of working things out.”
Jessica does suggest that pink flags may only present themselves as a bigger deal than they actually are because apps make it so easy to look for other partners.
“In general, people are less willing to work at relationships now because there is more choice, which is encouraged by looks-based dating apps,” she explains.
“There is a fine line between staying with someone that you shouldn't be with and not being willing to work at a relationship that is actually worth the effort.
“All relationships take work at various points and people shouldn't run away at the first sign that things aren't perfect. If something is worth having, it's worth nurturing and the right person will realise that.”