The phrase, popularized by the TV show Bojack Horseman, paints a vivid metaphor for how excessive optimism or infatuation can obscure important warning signs in relationships or situations. At first glance, it might sound poetic or even humorous, but beneath its simplicity lies a profound commentary on human perception, emotional bias, and the risks of ignoring reality.
Breaking Down the Metaphor
When you look at someone—or any situation—through “rose-coloured glasses,” you’re viewing them with a filter of positivity, hope, or romanticized ideals. This outlook can make the “red flags,” which are symbolic of problems, dangers, or unhealthy behaviors, seem insignificant or unremarkable. Instead of seeing them as warnings, you see them as neutral or even acceptable elements in the broader picture—just “flags” fluttering harmlessly in the breeze.
The Psychology Behind Rose-Coloured Glasses
This metaphor resonates so deeply because it reflects how our emotions and desires can distort our perception of reality. Here are some psychological phenomena at play:
- Selective Perception: People tend to notice what aligns with their beliefs or desires while filtering out information that contradicts them. For example, if you’re infatuated with someone, you might focus on their charm and humor while downplaying their lack of reliability.
- Cognitive Dissonance: When faced with evidence that conflicts with our feelings, we often rationalize the situation to reduce discomfort. This can lead to ignoring red flags or reframing them as minor quirks.
- Idealization: In the early stages of a relationship or opportunity, it’s common to idealize the other person or the situation, imagining them as better or more perfect than they actually are. This can create blind spots to flaws or warning signs.
Real-Life Examples
The phrase can apply to many situations, such as:
- Romantic Relationships: You’re enamored with a new partner who seems perfect, so you brush off their controlling behavior as “caring” or their emotional unavailability as “independence.” Over time, these red flags can grow into significant issues.
- Friendships: A friend who constantly takes but never gives might be dismissed as “just going through a tough time,” when in reality, they may be taking advantage of your generosity.
- Work Environments: Accepting a job at a “dream company” might blind you to the red flags of poor management, toxic culture, or unrealistic expectations. You convince yourself that “every workplace has issues” rather than addressing the ones right in front of you.
The Risks of Overlooking Red Flags
Ignoring red flags can lead to long-term consequences. It might leave you stuck in toxic relationships, harmful environments, or unwise decisions. By the time the rose-coloured glasses come off, the damage may already be done, leaving you wondering how you missed the warning signs in the first place.
How to Recognize When You’re Wearing Rose-Coloured Glasses
- Pay Attention to Patterns: Red flags are rarely one-off incidents. They usually occur repeatedly and consistently over time. If something feels off more than once, it’s worth addressing.
- Trust Outside Perspectives: Friends and family often notice warning signs that you might overlook. If multiple people express concerns, it’s worth considering their viewpoint.
- Check Your Rationalizations: Are you frequently making excuses for someone’s behavior or a situation’s shortcomings? If so, you might be downplaying legitimate issues.
- Pause for Reflection: Take time to evaluate the situation from a more objective perspective. Imagine what advice you’d give to a friend in your position.
Embracing Balance
Seeing red flags for what they are doesn’t mean abandoning hope, trust, or optimism. It means recognizing that no one and no situation is perfect—and being willing to acknowledge and address issues rather than sweep them under the rug.
By removing the rose-coloured glasses, you allow yourself to see the full spectrum of reality: the good, the bad, and the ugly. And while it can be uncomfortable to confront red flags, doing so is an act of self-respect and self-protection. In the end, it’s better to see the truth clearly than to live in a fantasy where red flags are just… flags.
4o
