Why are long-distance relationships complicated? There is no greater test for some people than distance. To some couples, it is a strengthening point of their bond and commitment to each other. It is common for individuals in long-distance relationships to feel lonely, especially when they encounter other couples engaging in public displays of affection. This is where long-distance gets hard because you have no one to comfort you.
It is not easy to be in a flawless relationship, but remote connections are even harder. For couples wondering whether it is worth being in a long-distance relationship or even preparing for possible distance barriers when they are together, it is important to be wary of the potential challenges for such couples even in college.
Do Long-Distance Relationships Work?
Just like any relationship, they come with challenges.They require commitment and self-discipline from both partners to bridge the distance. Remote relationships can be tricky to navigate well. They are known to foster resilience among partners through hard times, preparing them for their future life together.
1. You can't spend time together normally
You only get to spend time together periodically, say weekends or during holidays. Physical contact is essential in establishing strong bonds between lovers. Getting to know your partner well demands that you spend quality time together. A long- distance relationship deprives you of the opportunity to have intimate moments with your lover.
Sometimes, when you meet your partner after a long time, you may feel like you have gone cold. To counter this challenge, couples are encouraged to spend as much time together when it is possible. Constant communication is also encouraged through calls and texts. Ideally, do video calls with your partner because visual communication assures you your partner is safe and well. You can also read their body language when talking to him/her!
2. There might be more misunderstandings
Misunderstanding due to poor, ineffective communication is one of the reasons why long-distance relationships are hard. Your partner may interpret some messages wrongly, and it could be disastrous if you are not there to clarify the miscommunication. This is when remote communication gets complicated. Your partner is supposed to be your confidante.
Therefore, you need to open up to him/her the way you really feel. Some couples keep issues to themselves only to raise them after a long time leading to misunderstandings. Such partners end up getting uncomfortable with each other hence affecting their romance. To fix it, you need to be patient with each other for your relationship to flourish.
Try to give your lover a chance to explain issues you do not understand well. Establish a good communication strategy with your partner to avoid misinterpreting each other's actions.
3. Sharing things becomes challenging
We all need to share small and big moments with our partners. Couples may not realize how important sharing things is until they miss each other's birthdays, and that is when being distanced gets hard.
Sharing jokes, having dinner once in a while, and even going to events together can help couples realize what they share in common. These things are almost impossible for long-distance partners. Accumulating missed opportunities for sharing things can take a toll on most relationships. Make it a habit to share things with your partner.
4. Trust and security issue is a problem
You don't know what your partner is doing and who they are doing it with. It is understandable to become paranoid about your partner due to the distance. It happens, especially, if you have not established a firm foundation of trust with your partner. It happens if you were unable to spend sufficient time with each other and know each other well at the beginning of the relationship.
Overcoming it requires you to have faith in your partner and acknowledge that love is a gamble. Give your lover the space they need, not to feel like they are trapped.
5. You just miss him/her
Distance will make you miss someone you care about. You always want to be with them, but it is impossible with long-distance relationships. You will feel lonely because your lover is away. Missing someone is also a positive sign that you love your partner, and you want to be with them. Keep the faith that you will meet them soon and have good times together.
6. You feel lonely when it is a holiday or special events
It can be lonely to miss spending time with your partner during holidays or special events. It could be Valentine's Day, certain academic milestones, or a sports triumph in college. Milestones can be bitter if you want to share them with your significant other, but you are alone. Keep them in your mind and heart to get through such moments.
7. Jealousy
Even though it might signal your affection for your partner, it might impact your relationship negatively. Jealousy is an indication of possessiveness, anger, mistrust, and insecurity. It can easily drive a wedge between you and your partner. Ensure you find out the trigger of your jealousy and sort it out with your partner. Be honest with your lover and open up about what you feel is not right.
8. Ghosting
It is common for couples who have just met. You or your partner are not answering calls or replying to texts. One partner disappears completely! One gets to a point where the relationship is no longer viable. It is wise if you live hundreds of miles apart because you cannot go looking for your partner. Find out the reason for the ghosting and take it up with your partner. Separating requires preservation of each other's respect and dignity!
9. Possessiveness
Pestering your partner with calls and text is unhealthy. It shows that either you don't trust them, or you want to control their life. You don't want to give them space to do other things or interact with others. You end up pushing them away. If you feel your partner is ignoring you, tell them. Work out on an appropriate corrective mechanism for both of you.
Go for It!
Long-distance relationships aren't as bad as they are portrayed. You only need to understand your partner. Distance might affect your communication, but it only strengthens your bond. It makes you realize how much you value your partners.