Blogpost #5: Long-distance relationship

Being in a long-distance relationship is hard for most couples, but it’s not at all a hindrance for those who truly love each other. Contrary to what most people believe, being away from someone we love often leads us to have a deeper intimacy with our partner. We make every moment count because of the very limited time that we spend talking to each other and, in most cases, we tend to be more open about our true feelings. It only becomes difficult if we think much about the distance, itself, and when we consider physical presence more important than its emotional side. We sometimes long to be in each other’s arms and we like being cuddled and comforted whenever we feel miserable. In other words, we hate the thought of not being able to touch each other whenever we long for intimacy. Those are some of the reasons why long-distance relationships do not work. We always think of its negative side.

In the article “Long Distance Relationship” written by MelodyOfHeart in Wattpad, it is stated that a relationship can either be easy or hard notwithstanding the physical distance between the two persons involved. It all depends on how they handle and manage the relationship despite the distance. I have witnessed a lot of couples who are still together even after being apart for a period of time. My parents are one of the examples. They have been separated for almost 8 years now, but they are still one of the loveliest couples I know. They always make time for each other. They spend long hours on the phone talking about anything and everything under the sun. They also engage in video chats all the time.  One of the great advantages of advanced technology, I can say.

Long-distance relationships last because of two important factors:  constant communication and trust. In the article “9 Ways to Survive A Super Long-Distance Relationship” found in Cosmopolitan.com on Yahoo Shine, other ways to survive this kind of relationship is to have Regular Skype Sessions, Distract Yourself, and Be Consistent.

Regular Skype Sessions. Communication is one of the most important things that make long-distance relationships work. Through constant communication, you and your partner make each other feel emotionally attached despite the distance. It also helps eliminate doubts and fears that often cause the relationship to fail. It also gives you the assurance that he or she is always there for you.

Distract Yourself.  Keep yourself busy whenever your partner isn’t available due to work-related matters and the like. Don’t just sit there and wait for him to call. You will only get bored and start getting impatient that may sometimes lead to quarrels and misunderstanding. Focus on other things that you find interesting or spend time with your family and friends. Learn new hobbies like baking/cooking or engage in a sport. Attend family gatherings and birthday parties or visit a friend you have not seen for a long time. That way, you will also have more things to talk about once you get to talk with your partner again.

Be Consistent. This is the main key to making relationships work, long-distance or not. Make sure you do all the things that you say you will do and never ever change the way you treat your partner. Treat them the way you did during the first stage of your relationship. Never ever make promises that you can’t keep and be yourself! If someone really loves you, they will love and accept you for who you really are.

In another article entitled “How to Survive a Long Distance Relationship” written by Tiffany Mason in Life Hack, Be Committed, Think Long-Term, and Be Real are some secrets to make your relationship really work.

Be Committed. Spend some quality time talking to your partner about what you have in your relationship. Because if you know that you both are really committed in what you have, your relationship will be worth your time and energy.

Think Long-Term. It’s good if you think about what your future would look with your current relationship. It’s like you’re making sure that you’re in a relationship for the right reasons. I think that this develops you and your partner to really think about having a longer relationship.

Be Real. There is nothing wrong with having imperfections. Actually, this can be one of the keys to know if your partner is really serious about you. If he/she knows all your flaws but still stays with you, he/she accepts you for who you are. Because I don’t think anyone would stay in a relationship with someone they don’t accept for who they really are.

“Love knows no distance.” I firmly believe that love really knows no distance. Loving someone doesn’t necessarily mean you have to be with him/her every second every minute of the day. “Everybody needs a little time away from each other. Even lovers need a holiday…far away from each other”, as the song goes.