The Break Up Alert System

You're about to get dumped.

But you have no idea. How do you know when he's about to pull the rug out from under your feet?

Break ups are never fun. But it's even worse when you get dumped out of nowhere. I've been there. You've been there. Just about all of us have. You're shocked, horrified, you have this awful knot in your stomach, you can't eat, you can't sleep - and you constantly wonder how you could have missed the signs.

Well, it doesn't have to be that way. All it takes is a little relationship know-how. You don't have to be paranoid; but you'll save yourself a lot of time and heartache if you pay attention to the signs, and utilize what I call the Break Up Alert System. It's similar to the Homeland Security Advisory System; only instead of protecting the US, this will protect your heart.

Green Alert
Signs: He calls you a little less than usual. He takes you on slightly cheaper dates. He goes out with his buddies occasionally (once a week or less).
Risk: Low. He's probably just getting comfortable with you, and there likely isn't anything to worry about. However, watch for his need for space to increase; if that happens, you may be moving on to a different alert level.

Blue Alert
Signs: You notice a lack of previous positive behavior, like complimenting you or making special date plans. Instead he's more interested in himself.
Risk: Guarded. Again, he might just be getting comfortable in the relationship; or, he may be losing interest. This is where you should start watching his behavior more carefully.

Yellow Alert
Signs: He starts picking fights. He criticizes you or your appearance. He takes a lot of calls on his phone and doesn't tell you who's calling.
Risk: Elevated. If he's starting to act like a jerk and/or take you for granted, he could very well be losing the spark. This is where you need to be worried and possibly take action.

Orange Alert
Signs: He's losing interest in sex. He doesn't make eye contact with you. If he's out, he usually doesn't answer when you call. He won't talk about his feelings and has no interest in talking about the relationship, or where it's going.
Risk: High. You either need to get counseling, or break it off yourself, because you're headed downhill FAST.

Red Alert
Signs: He has no interest in sex. If he's out, he never answers when you call; in fact, he acts angry that you called at all. He comes right out and says you need a "break" or that he needs "time" and/or "space".
Risk: Severe. Just leave now. He's obviously not committed and you owe it to yourself to move on. There is someone better out there.