Are We Too Quick to Write Off Long-Distance Relationships?

Many individuals seeking guidance on sustning relationships in the face of geographical barriers often pose questions such as:

I will soon have to relocate for my job, but I don't want to up splitting with my partner. The distance is making us anxious. What should we do?

Might be starting a new relationship online that has the potential to bloom into something exclusive, but my partner lives far away. Is it wise to pursue this long-distance connection?

Considering the move of my significant other for a couple of years, they're suggesting we take some time apart because of the distance. Are we just asking for trouble if our relationship is long-distance?

And then there's me in this long-distance relationship; lately, I've been feeling reluctant to pick up their calls. Yet, despite that, I still love them deeply. Why does this happen to me?

Long-distance relationships often fall under societal skepticism. As social beings with innate preferences for physical proximity and direct contact, the concept of being apart from someone we care for may seem counterintuitive.

However, it's worth noting that long-distance relationships can indeed thrive over time and provide rewarding experiences on par with in-person connections. Let's delve into three key strategies to help you nurture your long-distance connection:

1 Engaging Regularly in Loving Real-Time Communication

Sustning a long-distance relationship requires an emphasis on communication, especially concerning three mn categories of discourse: love talk, friship talk, and problem-solving discussions.

Research published in the Journal of Family Psychology reveals that expressing love resonates more positively when done synchronously – meaning both parties are present for these conversations. Given potential time zone disparities, carve out specific hours each week to share a face-to-face video call with your partner. This reduces latency issues while strengthening feelings of love and connection.

Video calls, instant messaging, and virtual dates can reduce the perceived delay in expressing affection compared to just text or audio. Seeing each other's faces is more powerful than words alone, as it directly affects emotional expressions.

This study also found that problem-solving discussions conversations about day-to-day stresses during synchronous media were negatively linked to relationship satisfaction compared to love talk and friship talk. The takeaway: when sharing issues, m for constructive dialogue rather than lengthy complnts.

2 Prioritizing Your Mental Health for a Healthier Relationship

One major concern in long-distance relationships is that the partners might not experience the same level of intimacy as they would if sharing physical space. However, a study published in The Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy demonstrates that individuals with robust mental health are more likely to mntn intimacy even while apart.

Struggling with anxiety or depression can lead to emotional distancing from your partner, affecting communication, commitment, and satisfaction in sex life. Such issues might cause an escalating cycle of relationship problems that seem unmanageable on your own.

If you frequently feel anxious or depressed, consider seeking professional help for mental health issues. Addressing these concerns will enable you to lead a less stressful life and foster a more fulfilling partnership with your partner.

3 Keeping Your Eyes on the Prize

In long-distance relationships, it's crucial to envision shared futures together as key to its success.

A study published in Communication Quarterly underscores that partners who share similar future plans and view their distance phase as minor inconveniences t to experience higher satisfaction and lower stress compared to others.

Have you and your partner discussed when the long-distance period might ? Do you both share a fondness for each other's families? What about envisioning living together with them in the future?

These questions can reveal whether investing effort into your long-distance relationship is worth it.

Long-distance relationships are often undervalued as potential flures. However, embracing distance as part of your unique connection and assessing its implications without bias is crucial. If you're committed to being with your partner, prioritize time spent in meaningful conversation, ensure personal well-being, and mntn a positive outlook on the future shared together.

Mark Travers, Ph.D.

Contributor
This article is reproduced from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/traversmark/2022/10/24/3-tips-to-master-the-art-of-the-long-distance-relationship/

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