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Red Flags

I’m usually right about people when I meet them. My ability to spot red flags is strong. I believe in seeing the good in others, but I also recognize how important it is being able to fully see someone for who and what they are. Spotting red flags is a great way to assess this. Most people will show you exactly who they are if you really pay attention. Think about it. I recently checked out a book on this subject, titled, Red Flags: How to Spot Frenemies, Underminers, and Toxic People in Your Life, by Wendy L. Patrick. An acronym titled FLAG from her book lists the following to look out for when spotting red flags…

Focus
Lifestyle
Associations
Goals

When I dived into this book I was alarmed at the different things an investigator could easily miss and/or catch about someone, and it definitely had me thinking about different people I’ve known and encountered in my own life. If you can identify someone’s focus, pay attention to their lifestyle, notice who they associate with, and what their goals are, you may discover things about them you might have missed upon a couple of encounters or a first impression. How intriguing is that? I’m always paying attention and taking mental notes. I’ve gotten things wrong sometimes about different people, but most of the time I’m usually right about a vibe I’m picking up on, whether it’s good or bad. Being able to read red flags about someone is important, because at least you’ll know what and who you’re dealing with for future references. Sure, giving people the benefit of the doubt is a kind thing to do, but really being able to see clearly is equally, if not more, important. 
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