Long-distance relationships can pose some challenges depending, on circumstances.
Factors that come into play are the distance between you, what each of you truly desires, quality of time spent together, and overall optimism about the arrangement.
The truth is that it depends. Long-distance relationships can be more difficult than when two people live in the same vicinity, but they are not impossible to work out.
In fact, many long-distance relationships have flourished, but this flourishing depends on several factors.
Are both of you happy with the way things are?
If both of you want the relationship to work out and are willing to make some sacrifices, the relationship has of a chance to work out. Knowing and accepting that distance is a factor in the beginning is important.
Don’t be so naïve as to think that the distance will be a piece of cake. The truth is that long distance relationships pose more challenges.
Likewise, you’re not there for them in person.
These can cause you to feel sad, lonely, frustrated, and more. So, be sure you have a conversation about the distance and how you both really feel about it.
Every relationship needs good communication, but distance relationships may need a little more. Without the physical presence of a person, it is easy to think that they don’t care that much because you can't actually feel their love as if they were to hug or kiss you.
Because you can't be physical with one another, it is vital that you communicate via the phone, texting, video chat, email, etc. and affirm each other as often as you wish. Let them know that you are thinking of them.
Make the effort to share each other's hearts via communication.
You might not be able to see each other weekly, but make it a priority to get together on special occasions.
Plan certain weekends or vacations together. You may be able to meet halfway if the distance between you is great. The quality time together will keep the romance fires alive and can carry you through until the next time you can see each other.
Trust is important in every relationship, but especially so in long-distance relationships.
Do your best to trust that your partner is 100% yours and not obsess over what they are doing or who they are with. Even if they don’t answer your call or text back, put the fears aside and make a commitment to trust them.
If you start asking questions or assuming the worst, it will cause dissention between you two. They might see you as needy, controlling, and jealous. If you are, it is important that you take some time to work on these issues, as they can have a negative effect on relationships.
Likewise, if they are acting jealous of you, then sit down and have a conversation with them about it.
Don't get caught up solely in their life, but live your own life wherever you live.
Be sure to make friends and hang out with them sometimes. If you are bored, get involved in a hobby that you enjoy, like painting or dancing. You have your own life, and you ought to be independent just as you expect your partner to be independent.
You might want to have a conversation about where the relationship is headed for the future.
This kind of conversation may feel challenging for some, but it’s necessary to get a feel for the future.
Be honest with each other as you navigate your long-distance relationship.
If something is upsetting you about it, let them know. If you’re missing them terribly, it’s alright to tell them and vice versa. It’s normal to miss your partner, especially if you haven’t seen each other in a while.
Some days your emotions may be fine about the situation and other days, you may struggle with feeling the blues or frustration may set in. It’s alright to communicate honestly.
Read this next: The Most Common Boundaries You Should know and Set in Your Relationships
Long distance relationships can work out with honesty, patience, and plenty of understanding.
If you feel that your partner is worth the wait or worth the limited amount of quality time together, by all means keep the flames alive. Talk to your partner if the distance is causing you a great deal of emotional pain and is not really what you want.
If it’s impossible to move closer together or they are unwilling, you may have to consider ending the relationship and pursuing one with someone that lives closer to you. It may be painful, but you deserve to have what you want in a relationship and if you are not happy, the relationship isn’t likely to thrive.
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