We all have heard and known people who have been in a long-distance relationship. In fact, at some point, some of you might have even been in one or maybe currently are in a long-distance relationship. In today’s social networking age, more and more relationships are becoming long-distance. But what does long-distance mean? What is the definition of long-distance relationships? If you are one of us who are wondering what it means, then this blog post is just for you!
A long-distance relationship is one where two people share an intimate relationship but unlike conventional relationships, it is set between two people who are geographically distanced from each other due to different reasons. This reduces their chance of face-to-face communication and physical contact between them. It is more commonly referred to as LDR in short.
The base of a long-distance relationship is a deep emotional bond that is sustained through trust, love, fidelity, and constant gestures of affection via different means of communication. While it is a common belief that long-distance relationships aren’t that common and youngsters prefer face-to-face and physical interaction relationships, the stats say otherwise. A study shows that 25% to 50% of college students have been or are in a long-distance relationship at some point in time.
Long-distance relationships are difficult and need work from both ends of the relationship to make it work!
Long-distance relationships can be of two types. One where the couple met online through social networking sites and live in different cities, countries, or continents even. These couples chose to be in this relationship from the beginning and will have this idea of eventually living in the same place in the future or maybe not.
The other type of long-distance relationship is the one where the couple has been together for some time but due to some reason like a new job opportunity in a new city or distance education one person or both have to move. This kind of relationship can be a bit more difficult because you know how it was when you were physically together.
Trust is the most important factor in any relationship but when it comes to a long-distance relationship, trust plays an even important role. In LDR there is always a fear that your partner might end up with someone else and the fact that you can’t see them or meet them makes things worse. So, it is very important to trust your partner and more importantly to maintain that trust. Lack of trust can lead to complications in the relationship like jealousy, doubt, suspicion, and more.
Communication becomes so much more important in long-distance. If you are new to the relationship, then you will have to set some ground rules to make sure that you are on the same page when it comes to being honest and communicating things with each other. Set time out for each other once or twice a week, where you can discuss what happened through the week and your plans and for just being there for each other. With the everyday hustle and sometimes different time zones, catching up every day might be difficult hence scheduling a day/time in a week becomes very important.
In a long-distance relationship, the temptation to cheat or go out with someone else is high, that’s why commitment to your relationship and yourself is key here. While distance does make the heart grow fonder, it also makes us weak and vulnerable. So, make sure that you remember how important the relationship is for the both of you and keep yourself committed to it!
While communicating is important, giving each other space and independence is equally important to have a healthy and lasting long-distance relationship. You cannot depend on each other for gratification. Be independent and have your own set of friends that you can hang out with or maybe hobbies that will keep you busy because you won’t have your partner to spend time with.
A long-distance relationship has its pros and cons just like everything else in life. While some might appreciate the freedom that comes with it or the sense of rejuvenation they feel when they see their partner after a long time, others might find the pressure to keep the relationship together or the loneliness from the separation too much.
But there are ways you can make a relationship work if it is worth the effort. Here are some easy and super helpful tips to make sure your long-distance relationship is a success!
1. Always keep open communication with your partner no matter what
2. Set up virtual dates or phone dates to spend some quality time together. You can also plan virtual movie date nights or get their favorite food delivered and enjoy a nice virtual meal together. The possibilities in today's digital world are endless!
3. Send each other letters or emails just like old-school! This is one beautiful way to surprise each other and to keep that love going.
4. Sometimes just drop in a random call to check on your partner or leave a text message to ask them how their day was. You would be surprised with how long these tiny gestures go in building relationships.
5. Share how your day went and plans for next week. It makes the other person feel valued and loved. It is the best way to communicate and keep each other updated on your life.
6. Send each other gifts. You need not send anything too expensive or elaborate, something simple like a card or flowers will also do. A thoughtful gift is sure to surprise and make your partner feel loved. Gifts are just the perfect way to tell them how much you love and miss them! If you need some fun and amazing long-distance gift ideas, then you can check out our blog, Best Long-Distance Gift Ideas.
While long-distance relationships need more effort as compared to conventional relationships and can sometimes be emotionally challenging, in the end, it is so worth it. If you are in a long-distance relationship and you have some more tips and details to share, then leave us a comment.
