Seriously. Just don't ignore them.
By Beth El Fattal — Written on Apr 11, 2019
One of the (many) tough parts about dating is facing dislikes, red flags and deal breakers. Maybe you don't absolutely love the fact that your S.O. never folds the laundry, but it isn't really a red flag or a deal breaker.
However, if you found out your S.O. cheated on their last partner, you probably would call that a BIG red flag. Something like that requires some explanation or causes you to stop and consider if you're okay with it. If you decide you aren't, then that red flag just became a deal breaker, or anything that ends a relationship.
Red flags aren't always a deal breaker, but I think most people expect some red flags while getting to know anyone, which means we take them a little less seriously than we should. Often, we settle for much less than we deserve, ignoring any red flags and choosing to make the most of an 'eh' situation.
I'm here to remind you why that's a terrible idea.
As someone who's ignored red flags and felt the consequences, I can assure you that it's so important to pay attention to the red flags popping up around you, because, chances are, if there's one there are others. And you deserve to know what you're getting into! The biggest thing I've learned in the past few years is to stop making excuses for others and to start deciding what exactly I deserve. For me, I learned this lesson the hard way when my ex went to teach abroad and confessed that he had told a girl he was single. My response at the time was, "Okay, congratulations, you are now." (Savage, I know.) However, I didn't stick to it. He begged for a second chance, and I gave it to him when I probably should've stuck to my guns.
A week later he cheated on me.
I won't go into any more detail than that now, but you can see that I ignored the warning even when I really could have broken it off. His cheating isn't my fault, but I probably could've saved myself quite a bit of pain by ending things sooner.
Fighting to get back what you deserve is not only right but necessary. It doesn't make you needy or greedy or demanding or anything like that. Being treated poorly or with less respect than you deserve is unacceptable, so fight for yourself. Because it's a battle no one else can fight for you.
So, here's 18 breakup quotes and quotes about heartbreak in relationships to remind you why ignoring red flags won't take you anywhere you'll be happy about.
1. When you know how to be happy.
“I am pleased to say I am happy – with or without you.” — Unknown
2. Life is about leveling up.
“You were my cup of tea but I drink champagne now.” — Unknown
3. You don't always know what's best.
“Sometimes what you want most is what you’re best without.” — Unknown
4. Know how they impact your life.
“If being with them does not improve your life, you’ll be better off without them.” — Unknown
5. Excuses aren't worth anything.
“If he wanted to, he would’ve.” — Unknown
6. Let them fall before you help them back up.
“If they act like they can live without you, help them do it.” — Unknown
7. Keep looking ahead!
“I don’t care what you think about me. I don’t think about you at all.” — Coco Chanel
8. Thank you, next.
“I’m Prada, you’re nada.” — Unknown
9. Don't put your head down. Your tiara will fall.
“Too glam to give a damn.” — Unknown
10. When you know who does the work.
“I tried, you didn’t. Have fun! I’m done.” — Unknown
11. Don't be one of THOSE people.
“At the end of the day, most people settle for less than they deserve.” — Unknown
12. If it was meant to be it would have been.
“The one I wanted wasn’t the one who deserved me.”— r.h. sin
13. Men aren't your whole world.
“Sometimes, the most valuable lesson that a man can teach you is that you can do better than him.” — Unknown
14. Definitely.
“You are worth more than second thoughts and maybes." — Unknown
17. You are no one's second place prize.
“When someone treats you like an option, help them narrow their choices by removing yourself from the equation.” —Unknown
18. If you're wondering, get answers.
“The moment you start to wonder if you deserve better, you do.” — Unknown
19. Know your limits, always.
“As we gain confidence in ourselves, red flags are no longer red flags. They’re deal breakers.” — Unknown
20. Don't ignore the signs, there are no directions.
“Ignoring the sings is a good way to end up in the wrong destination.” —Unknown
If you're searching for the best quotes and memes to share with the people you love (or just want to feel inspired yourself) ... look no further! From the sweetest love quotes, inspirational sayings, and hilarious friendship truths, we've got you covered.
Beth El Fattal is a writer who covers astrology, pop culture and relationships topics.