The topic of long-distance relationships is shrouded in a lot of negativity for years. Maybe the most common perception that long distance relationships don’t work is the reason behind all this negativity. It is true to a great extent. However, making a long distance relationship work in the hyper-connected world is far easier compared to the era when two people miles apart could communicate only via mail or telephone. The truth is most of the gossip you hear about long distance relationships may not necessarily apply to yours.
Here are 4 myths about long-distance relationships that you shouldn’t believe.
1. When You Get Together Things Won’t Be Same Again
Being in a long distance relationship means, you don’t get to see each other as often as couples do in a conventional relationship. You may be able to see each other see each other only once a month or even less than that. Most people think that this type of physical distance can result in problems when you finally start living with your partner.
Of course, things will be a little different when you start living together. However, the possibility that your partner will be a completely different person and you will have nothing in common is very slim. If you want your relationship to work, you will need work on those little challenges. However, if things do change completely, you may have to rethink your relationship.
2. Communication Is Difficult
Another misconception about long-distance relationships is that it is difficult to communicate with your partner. However, with email, video calling, and social media, you have plenty of ways to communicate with your partner. In fact, technology has made it quite easier to stay in touch with each other, almost 24×7.
Of course, you will need to be as expressive as possible in a long-distance relationship, as the only way for you to communicate, is through words. You can’t connect physically or emotional on a video call. In other words, you will need to hone up your communication skills.
3. Limited Physical Bonding Transpires into a Less Romantic Relationship
It is true that physical intimacy plays a critical role in a romantic relationship. In case of a long-distance relationship, things are slightly different, as you can’t cuddle or have sex as often as in any conventional relationship. So, it is usually argued that due to the limited physical bonding between the couple, the passion in their relationship gradually dies.
As you get to see each other very rarely, whenever you get together, the physical intimacy will seem as fresh as the first time. So, staying apart will actually help strengthen your physical bond, resulting in a healthier relationship. Besides, physical expression is just one part of a relationship. Several different factors including your personality, culture, and education among others also play an essential role in your relationship. That’s why we see many conventional couples break up, despite having good physical intimacy.
4. Your Partner Will Cheat on You
Not the infidelity itself, but worrying about cheating can cause long-distance relationships to break. It is pretty obvious to worry about the possibility of your partner cheating on you when you are living miles apart.
However, infidelity is an issue that plagues both conventional as well as long-distance relationships. In fact, in over one-third of marriages, one or both partners admit to cheating. So, those relationships are not so different compared to long distance ones. There is also no evidence to suggest that couples in long-distance relationships are more likely to cheat compared to others.
Parting Words
You may have to be in a long distance relationship for a variety of reasons. Yes, it is a tough relationship. However, not every long-distance relationship is bound to be doomed. Instead of listening to the naysayers, use the above facts to see your long distance relationship for what it really is and make it work. Maybe, it will turn out to be the best relationship you have ever had.