He Ordered a Well Done Steak and Other Red Flags
Hey Girl Gang! Let’s be real: dating right now is a total mess. One minute you’re laughing over an appetizer, and the next, a tiny "quirk" turns into a loud, ringing alarm bell. We’ve all been there, wondering if we’re being too picky or if our gut is trying to save us from a disaster.
The truth? How people handle the little moments is exactly how they’ll handle you.
Haven’t listed to our latest episode yet? Check it out now! Don’t have time to listen, check the recap below!
The "Table Manners" Litmus Test
It’s never just about the food. When someone orders a steak, their preference for "doneness" can actually be shorthand for how flexible or adventurous they are. But more importantly, watch how they treat the staff. Are they tipping well? Are they kind to the server? That’s baseline respect, and it’s non-negotiable.
And let’s talk first-date etiquette: if you invited them out, don’t make splitting the bill a weird power struggle. Don’t critique what they order, and for the love of everything, maybe don't blow your nose right over the pasta. We even love the "ribs test"—watching someone get messy with a rack of ribs tells you if they’re authentic and ready to grab life with both hands, or if they’re hiding behind a formal fork and knife.
The Digital "Vibe Check"
Before you even meet, your phone is already sending signals. Let’s be honest about the Snapchat Trap: if someone only wants to talk on Snap, it usually screams "casual" or "I’m hiding something".
The app you choose matters, too. We know the vibes: Tinder is for the weekend, while Hinge and Bumble are usually for the "long haul." If you’re looking for something real, make sure your platform—and your consistency—matches your intent. Honesty and clear communication are the new chemistry.
Red Flags vs. Real Connection
We’ve all dealt with the heavy hitters: the "little" white lies, the subtle control, or that weird "asking permission" dynamic. Here’s a golden rule to save your sanity: Vent or Solution? Before you dive into a rant, tell your partner which one you need. Nothing drains a relationship faster than a "chronic complainer" who refuses to take action.
Also, watch out for "Value PR." If someone says they value family but hasn't called their mom in six months, their words are just marketing. Trust is built when the calendar matches the conversation.
The "Ick" Factor
Is it a shallow "ick" or a genuine compatibility filter? Whether it’s a face tattoo, a gym obsession, or a specific car, these things hint at the lifestyle you’re signing up for.
And don't even get us started on pets! For dog lovers, "no dogs" isn't just a preference—it’s a dealbreaker. You can’t ask someone to rehome their best friend. Whether it’s your love for books or your 5:00 AM gym habit, you don’t need your partner to be your twin, but they do have to respect the space those things hold in your life.
Show Up and Be Present
At the end of the day, curiosity is the oxygen of a good date. Put the phone away—having it on the table feels like you're just waiting for something better to pop up. Ask real questions, give real answers, and keep the thread going. One-word replies are where chemistry goes to die.
If you’re staring at a "beige flag" and aren't sure if it’s a dealbreaker, give it some time. Patterns don't lie, but they do take a minute to emerge. Trust your gut, protect your peace, and remember: the right person will make the small things feel easy.
So until next time - stay bold, stay empowered…
Rachael & the Girl Gang
