Compelled by an unexplainable urge, I feel the need to unveil my red flags. Personally, I don’t see these flags as ominous crimson warnings, but rather as subtle yellows. I firmly believe that not every signal demands immediate concern. Instead, the interpretation lies in the hands of the one waving the flag. Alternatively, these might be complete deal-breakers.
In today’s society, concepts like red flags and the “ick” have transformed into dynamic tools in the quest for an ideal partner. They serve as reminders drawn from past experiences, shaping a future that aligns more closely with our individual needs. Waving the flag isn’t inherently negative; in fact, I would recommend using these flags sparingly. However, the truth remains that these flags will surface sooner or later. So, I’ve decided to come clean and share my five personal red flags.
1. I love arguing
Verbal warfare is one of the many things that excites me. Engaging in lively debates and the constant quest to find common ground always seem to bring me closer to the person I’m talking to. Yet, I’m aware that people find this trait annoying, often citing the same question: “Would you rather be right? Or happy?” Truth be told, that seems like a paradox my brain can’t unravel. I find they coincide more like a fine Piña Colada and a beautiful view of the ocean. When someone says something I don’t agree with, I feel I have no choice but to speak up. It’s not because of a pompous attitude, but rather a need to find the answer right then and there. My brain hates a mystery and biting my tongue is something that I feel like I have done for too long. So, if you think In n Out isn’t the greatest fast food in the world, I just might have something to say.
2. Obsessed with excitement
Is Afroman really set to perform at the Tackle Box? Are the wailing sirens and speeding ambulances tearing down the street part of the night’s excitement? And is there genuinely one of the world’s biggest yo-yos in Chico? Count me in – I’m always down. The thrill of excitement, wherever and whenever I can find it, is something I cherish. Yet, this want for adventure sometimes clashes with the responsibilities of adulthood, creating quite a predicament. Life, in my opinion, should be filled with fun. Striking that balance between adulting and enjoyment can be a strenuous task. Despite the challenges, I sense improvement in navigating these delicate lines. However, the allure of Riley’s on a Wednesday night, even with a looming Thursday morning psychology test at 9 a.m., is in the back of my head. The conflict between the desire for spontaneous enjoyment and the weight of adult obligations persists. While a serious man is often considered an ideal partner, the want for some carefree fun is undeniable. Let’s live a little, embrace the excitement, and revel in the joy of the unexpected. When faced with a choice, fun always seems like the preferable option.
3. I might forget everything!
I can’t find my keys! Where’s my wallet? Baby, have you seen my charger?! It feels like I’ve spent half my life searching for and forgetting things. It’s not fun; I’ve tried Post-it notes, blackboards, and phone reminders, but nothing seems to do the trick. She told me her name, but right after, it slipped away like a fleeting thought. My mind races at a million miles per hour, and those simple tasks just slip right past me. When it comes to a singular focus, I’m all in! But with a multitude of small things, I turn into Spongebob when Squilliam asks for his name.
Yet, amidst the chaos, there’s hope. Perhaps the key lies in embracing the unique way my mind works, finding creative solutions, and celebrating those moments of singular focus. Life may be a bit scattered, but there’s beauty in the pursuit of balance and the hope that, with time, the art of remembering will become a more harmonious melody.
4. Isolation
I think I genuinely have a big heart. I am always ready to share my energy with those who need it. Yet, there are moments when I find myself so drained that I retreat to my room, no phone in hand, just unwinding. Taking the time to process things deeply is crucial for me. When someone’s words strike a chord, I escape into my own little world, spending hours contemplating and reflecting, only to reemerge with a thoughtful answer.
In these solitary moments, there’s an honest need to replenish, and it’s during this quiet introspection that I find the strength to navigate the complexities of emotions and relationships. Despite the occasional drain, there’s resilience in the heart’s ability to rebound, and from those moments of solitude often emerges a renewed sense of energy and clarity.
However, I understand that most people may not appreciate these quiet interludes. Loved ones, out of concern, often ask, “Are you alright?” Their worry is deeply appreciated, and I feel honored by it. Yet, my usual response is, “Don’t worry, I was just thinking about stuff.”
5. I will eat your food
As the title implies, I will always declare my love for food. It’s a passion that leads me to invest two to three hours daily in my workout routine just to savor the delights of a good meal. When offered food, I don’t hesitate to take a hearty bite. While this may not raise concerns for many, it brings to mind a memory of my first girlfriend and I engaging in our initial disagreement. The source of the conflict? I had taken too substantial a bite out of her sandwich. Looking back, it was a pretty big bite.
Yet, this love for food sometimes comes with the unavoidable chorus of, “Can I have some?” or, “Are you going to finish that?” While embodying a golden retriever’s enthusiasm might be endearing in some situations, having someone constantly peering over at you during mealtime can become a tad bothersome. Despite the occasional annoyance, the joy that food brings and the shared moments around the table make it all worthwhile.
I’ve shared some of my noticeable red flags, and can’t think if there are more hiding in the background. Figuring out these things about myself is kind of a journey that never really ends. Talking about these red flags makes me think about how it’s a bit like showing my true colors. It’s like saying, “This is me, and I hope you’re okay with it.”
Now, after all that, how about dinner at 8:00?