If you’re interested in this topic, there’s probably a far more important question you’d like to have answered.
You want to know, “Will my long-distance relationship work?”
You may fear that you could put a lot of time and effort into a relationship that’s inevitably doomed to fail.
While no one would deny that long-distance relationships are more challenging, some are successful nonetheless.
What are the primary qualities of successful long-distance relationships? Here are some of the essentials.
You Have an Agreed-Upon Distance End Date in Mind
Long-distance relationships are born out of necessity. You have obligations in different geographical locations that separate you.
Despite this, you continue the relationship because its value overrides the potential challenges set forth by being apart.
That said, a long-distance relationship without a concrete plan to eventually live close to each other again is doomed to fail.
Both parties in the relationship need to develop a hard-set game plan where you eventually wind up in the same place. And bridging the distance gap should come sooner than later.
The longer you let this “hang out there,” the greater chance your relationship will struggle.
You Have a High Level of Trust for Each Other
If you experienced ongoing trust issues when you lived in the same area, imagine what a long-distance relationship will be like.
There has to be a high level of trust so that when you communicate, you’re not checking up on the other person to make sure they’re being faithful. You have to intuitively have the confidence that’s already happening.
Instead of checking up on each other, you’re naturally communicating and making the relationship stronger when you interact.
When it comes to long-distance relationships, couples with marginal to poor trust need not apply. Without strong trust already established, your long-distance relationship will be a bust.
More Than Technology Talk
As much as possible, do more than online chatting and that sort of thing. Technology has made it easier than ever to have a long-distance relationship and not lose touch.
That can be both a blessing and a curse. First, when you’re physically together, you naturally get a break from each other—an essential but overlooked quality for a healthy relationship.
With texting, emailing and other forms of online messaging, you don’t get the chance to be “unplugged.” You may be tempted to feel like you should always be communicating.
That sort of impossible standard will burn you out quickly. Such demands also tend to be placed on the relationship by a partner who lacks trust.
Besides the natural breaks you need from each other like couples living close practice, you need other forms of communication.
Try picking up the phone and talking more instead of texting or send a care package with a hand-written letter. And, of course, as much a possible, arrange times to travel so you can see each other face-to-face.
Of course, with any long-distance relationship, each has its unique needs in order for the relationship to survive and thrive.
Are you considering entering a long-distance relationship or do you need some professional support with the one you’re currently in? Now could be the perfect time to contact the OC Relationship Center to build a better foundation for a healthy long-distance relationship!
