The dating process can be discouraging for people who might end up spending time with others who are incompatible. A first date with a potential love interest is an opportunity to observe if they will show signs of being a secure partner or have major red flags. It can be challenging to determine where a relationship will lead, but there are some initial warnings you can look for on the first date.

Five first-date red flags to pay attention to on the first date.

During your first date, you might be easily distracted by various factors, including the other person’s mannerisms, the location, personal feelings, and the people around you. However, some red flags can be quite noticeable, and we have a few you keep in mind.

Your date strongly suggests a bar but doesn’t drink alcohol.

Going to a bar, lounge, or pub may be less intimate and allows you to leave quickly. However, it can be a red flag if your date insists on this location but doesn’t drink alcohol. Even if you are a social drinker, alcohol affects judgment and reduces motor coordination and alertness. You want to be aware since you are meeting someone new, so you can understand who they are.

There are constant comments about the price of almost everything.

If your date makes money the focus of the date by constantly commenting on the prices on the menu, clothing, vehicle, travels, etc., this is a red flag you should pay attention to. It could be that they want to impress you with material things or think they can buy everything (including people). It could also be that they are insecure and see wealth as their most attractive feature. You want to get to know each other on the first date, and talking excessively about money often kills the vibe.

The person displays signs of being controlling.

Insisting on a specific location, where you must sit, what you should drink, and overruling you on what to order are signs that you might be dealing with a controlling person. Although it may appear harmless initially, controlling behaviours can result in different types of abuse (physical, sexual, stalking, emotional and verbal, etc.). You should pay attention to these behaviours, especially if this is someone you are interested in getting to know better.

The person you are on the date with criticises almost everything.

It can be disappointing when the service at a restaurant or lounge could be better. However, if your date is critical of almost everything – food, servers, prices, or the people they know – you should avoid going on another date. Poking fun at others and unnecessary criticism provide insight into the person’s thoughts. If you decide to pursue a relationship, you could also likely become the subject of unfair or harsh criticism over time.

They keep bringing up their ex-partner or refer to them negatively.

The idea of a first date is to get to know the other person. So, it can be unappealing if they repeatedly bring up their ex-partner. If their ex comes up disparagingly, it shows your date is unlikely to take accountability for their actions. They could still have unresolved feelings for their ex or how the relationship ended. If this is someone you want a future with, constantly hearing about their ex will eventually hurt your relationship.

While some of these red flags might be subjective, we hope you found a few helpful reminders. Remember, our Find Yello listings can make finding the right restaurant, lounge, or related businesses easy when searching for where to go. Good luck.

Sources: Psychology Today, BuzzFeed, Business Insider, and Cosmopolitan.