Self-Preservation, aka Watch Out For The Red Flags

We find ourselves in all sorts of situations that test our intelligence, our stamina, our patience, our self-worth. How, then, do we know when these situations are opportunities for growth, and when they are simply red flags to make a change? I don't have the answers, really--just a few thoughts...
 
1. Does the situation involve people who are worth knowing, because they can teach us something, or just because they are interesting people? If yes, maybe it's an opportunity.
 
2. Does the situation interfere with our doing what we need to do in the rest of our lives? If yes, maybe it's a red flag.
 
3. Is the situation still teaching us new skills? If yes, maybe it's an opportunity.
 
4. Is the situation battering our self-worth? If yes, maybe it's a red flag.
 
5. Is the situation providing us with challenges to which we rise? If yes, maybe it's an opportunity.
 
6. Is the situation providing us with challenges that are, too often, impossible to meet? If yes, maybe it's a red flag.
 
7. Is the situation a place we'd like our children or best friend to experience? If yes, maybe it's an opportunity.
 
8. Is the situation someplace we wouldn't wish on anyone? If yes, maybe it's a red flag.
 
9. Is the situation leaving us tired at the end of the day, but still oddly energetic for the next? If yes, maybe it's an opportunity.
 
10. Is the situation wiping us out daily, with no opportunity for mental or physical recovery? If yes, maybe it's a red flag.
 
Sometimes, it's hard to practice self-preservation. But if we can learn to see the red flags in among the opportunities, at least, perhaps, we have a fighting chance.