Let's suppose that you are meeting someone online and that person seem to be the match of your life, but is living far away from you. Does it worth to spend your time in a long distance relationship with this person? What if this person is really your soul mate? If you are in a long distance relationship or you think there is a possibility of one, here is an article just for you!
Let me begin with a personal story. A few years ago, I met a guy online. We initially spoke as pals. We came to the realization that we both desired a committed relationship, so we began to get to know one another. I wasn't sure at the time, but things eventually started to make sense. We continued to like one other throughout the next months, and it was especially remarkable that we never got tired of conversing on the phone. We moved past the "talking phase" and into a romantic relationship. We were dating with the goal of getting married. He and his parents flew to India in February 2023, and we are now engaged. 13,150 kilometres away from here, I found the love of my life. We anticipate getting married soon.
Distance, combined with phone calls and writing, electronically or through regular mail, can foster an enviable intimacy which results from learning about another's qualities, values and ways of thinking, sensitivities, dreams, and aspirations. This type of intimacy can make your coming together much more special. And, as if relationships weren't complicated enough, having them across a long distance is extremely challenging.
Even though long distance relationships can be something you want, here are few challenges that you may face:
1. Communication challenges:
One of the main risks in long distance relationships is the difficulty of maintaining effective communication. Physical distance can make it harder to have regular and meaningful conversations, as time zone differences, work schedules, and limited face-to-face interaction can hinder communication. Misunderstandings and feelings of isolation can arise when communication becomes inconsistent or lacking in depth.
Trust is crucial in any relationship, but it becomes particularly important in a long distance relationship. The absence of daily interactions and the inability to monitor each other's activities can lead to doubts and insecurities. Trust issues may arise due to the fear of infidelity or lack of emotional support. Building and maintaining trust requires constant effort and reassurance from both partners.
3. Emotional and physical intimacy challenges:
Long distance relationships often lack the regular physical intimacy that comes with proximity. The absence of physical touch, hugs, and intimacy can take a toll on both partners, leading to feelings of loneliness, frustration, and dissatisfaction. Emotional intimacy can also be compromised as partners may struggle to express their emotions effectively through distance. This can lead to emotional disconnection or a sense of emotional unavailability.
4. Limited shared experiences:
Building a strong bond in a relationship often relies on shared experiences and creating memories together. In long distance relationships, opportunities for shared experiences are limited, making it challenging to develop a deep connection. The lack of shared activities, celebrations, and everyday moments can create a sense of missing out and may strain the relationship over time.
5. Uncertain future and lack of permanence:
Long distance relationships typically involve a significant level of uncertainty about the future. Partners may have to make difficult decisions about their careers, education, or living arrangements to bridge the distance. The uncertainty surrounding the duration of the separation and the prospects of eventually being together can create anxiety and strain on the relationship. The lack of a clear timeline or plan for closing the distance can make it difficult to sustain the relationship long-term.
It's important to note that while long distance relationships come with inherent risks, many couples successfully navigate these challenges with open communication, trust, and dedication. You may be surprised how much a relationship can grow if you work at it. If you know and apply some simple rules, your relationship can turn out to be one of the most successful and happy relationships that ever existed.
Just read the following rules and try to keep them in mind and apply them for sustaining a long distance relationship:
1. Share feelings openly.
The quality of a relationship is more likely to increase if both people develop the ability to share feelings openly with each other. Do not be afraid to tell your partner what you really need and want from him or her, he or she deserves to know the truth and judge whether they can give it to you.
2. Make the relationship a high priority.
Avoid canceling reunions or putting off a phone call. No other thing should be as important as your partner. (Not suggesting that you leave other important work unattended)
3. Keep in touch daily.
If large phone bills are a concern, send e-mail, letters, cards and even faxes. And when you do make contact, don't just stick to love talk, but keep each other informed on the day-to-day aspects of your lives. This way each of you is aware of how the other is thinking, feeling and developing. Late-night talks and thoughtful letters can convey a lot of what is most important in the long-term: your goals, values and dreams.
4. Be prepared to be flexible.
Tell your partner of how much you think about and love him or her and you will score some important points. Making them miss you more and you’ll fill them with the constant urge to see you. But don't be possessive. Being paranoid and accusing will only grow doubts, insecurity and tension between you and none of those will help the relationship develop successfully.
If your partner truly wants to be with you, then they would not want to wait forever to have you next to her or him. As long as you both trust each other, inform one another of your personal lives, keep in touch, your relationship can turn out into a happy normal relationship.
Ultimately, a fabulous relationship is your goal -right?
About Desamfm
"Desamfm is an online platform catering to Christian youngsters aged 13 to 35. It offers a variety of multimedia resources, including videos, blogs, and podcasts created by Christian creatives. Covering topics like faith, relationships, and personal growth, DESAMFM provides an interactive space for young Christians to connect, share experiences, and seek guidance. With a user-friendly interface and regular updates, it ensures fresh and relevant content. DESAMFM serves as a valuable resource, combining Christian values with the interests of today's youth. Join the community and embark on a faith-filled journey together."