If you ask me for advice on long distance relationships, I’d say, “Don’t do it”. And I say don’t do it for the following reasons:
- It’s more exhausting than a short distance relationship.
- Maintaining a strong connection requires consistent extra effort to make your partner feel valued and understood. If you don’t prioritize this, someone else may easily capture their attention, especially in today’s culture where long distance relationships are often taken lightly.
- Cheating is easier.
- Communication issues are common. You talk but without reading each other’s emotions, nothing gets resolved.
- Fights become more frequent. Small disagreements escalate and hanging up the phone or ignoring each other becomes the default solution.
- It’s emotionally draining and stressful.
Honestly, being in a long distance relationship (LDR) comes with unique challenges.
That said, as someone currently in a long distance relationship with the most beautiful person I’ve ever met, I can assure you it can work, if you’re patient and committed. When I started out with my partner, we always had issues from time to time due to the distance but as things progressed, I’ve discovered one of the biggest success factors for LDR’s is trust and communication. You need to trust yourself and that trust reflects in your judgment in choosing a partner who resonates with you on every level —emotionally, intellectually and spiritually.
When your trust and communication is a hundred percent, you’re setting yourself for a lasting relationship. The key is being intentional about creating intimacy and connection when physical closeness isn’t an option.
I see long distance as a test of love. It reveals the strength of your connection. You never fully realize how much someone means to you until you have to face life without them every day.
While I wouldn’t recommend it to everyone because it’s a personal decision, long distance relationships do have their advantages:
- You get time to focus on yourself, knowing your partner is doing the same.
- You enjoy the perks of a relationship while maintaining the independence of being single.
- You grow individually, which is a beautiful thing. When two whole individuals come together, they create magic.
- Your achievements aren’t tied to your partner and you both pursue your dreams without holding each other back.
- Absence intensifies emotional connection. Your time apart enhances appreciation for one another and shared moments.
If you’re still reading, it only means one thing —you’re willing to fight for your love.
Maintaining intimacy and connection in a long distance relationship is tough but not impossible if you’re intentional about making it work.
- Make time for regular check ins through calls, texts or video chats.
- Share your daily experiences, thoughts and feelings to stay connected and bridge the emotional gap.
- Be intentional about creating special moments, send thoughtful gifts, plan surprises or even just writing one another a heartfelt message. Technology makes it easier.
- Don’t shy away from being vulnerable. Trust and honesty are the foundations of any strong relationship, be open about your needs and concerns and listen to your partner’s as well.
Lastly, keep the future in mind. Love grows stronger when both partners are committed to making it work —distance or not.
