Geographical separation, whether it may be because one partner has a new job out of state or out of country, or the relationship started online, is not uncommon in today’s dating climate.
While advancements in technology, such as video calls and instant messaging, have made distant romance more manageable, skepticism about their viability persists.
Defining long-distance relationships?
They are the types of relationships that typically involve individuals living far apart, often more than a hundred miles.
The ability to communicate so easily facilitates staying connected, lessening the notion that these relationships are inherently doomed.
Success stories
Contrary to skepticism, a considerable number of individuals successfully navigate geographical separation every day.
Millions of individuals in the United States are currently in such relationships, and there are even some marriages among people surveyed which started as long distance.
Long distance relationships are not new, but because of the ease of communication, they are now more universally accepted and not looked at as doomed to fail.
So, despite the problems encountered, they are proven to sometimes work.
Duration and challenges
Studies indicate that these relationships last a few months, with roughly half of them concluding in breakups.
As distance grows, so do the concerns about infidelity and resistance to adapt and change to be able to effectively communicate are key factors contributing to the higher breakup rate.
Recognizing potential issues
Before agreeing to a long-distance relationship, understanding the potential issues that you may encounter is important. The issues go beyond problems associated with infidelity.
Not being able to physical interact
Humans naturally yearn for physical touch, something that messages and video calls cannot fully satisfy.
Things like quality time and simply holding each other which are equally crucial for a healthy relationship, become a challenge.
It’s expensive
Despite the affordability of communication that modern technology has given us, sustaining a long-distance relationship remains relatively costly due to expenses like flight tickets and the need to take time off work. You also have to spend time looking for cheaper tickets and planning trips.
Envy and self-doubt
When the distance between you and your significant other is large, the difficulty in overcoming feelings of jealousy is exacerbated, particularly with both partners actively engaging on social media.
Innocent posts and images may take on unintended meanings, fueling insecurity
Out of sight, out of mind.
It’s easier to forget your partner’s existence if you don’t see them regularly. The daily aspects of life, can take precedence, leading to unintentional neglect.
Disconnect in communication
Differing communication preferences between partners can pose a significant challenge.
You and your partner should establish a compromise on communication styles so that you maintain a stable connection.
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Advantages of long-distance relationships
Amidst the challenges that these relationships pose, they also offer unique advantages.
These include fostering patience and trust, providing space for individual pursuits, promoting appreciation for shared time, serving as an excuse to travel, and encouraging introspection about personal goals.
Long-distance relationships, like any other form of romantic connection, have both positives and negatives.
While the desire to maintain a relationship is commendable, it may not always be feasible.
If your heart isn’t aligned with the prospect of a relationship, there’s no need to feel guilty about ending the relationship.
Don’t lose hope when faced with reality —there may be other meaningful connections waiting to be discovered.
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