A long distance relationship (LDR) is not always a bed of roses. There are some harsh facts about long distance relationships that you should know before entering into one.
LDR needs a lot of patience and effort than normal relationships. And you have to face lots of challenges, which are actually difficult to overcome.
So if you’re the one who thinks about being in a LDR, you should know what it actually looks like instead of just fantasizing, which you may have seen in movies. Because a reality check on LDRs helps you make the right decision, depending on whether you’re ready to face all those challenges or not.
Always remember that not every long-distance relationship is the same, and neither are their challenges. But in this article, we’ve shortlisted 7 harsh facts about long distance relationships that you should know about.
So let’s get into that!
7 Harsh Facts About Long Distance Relationships :
1. Even communication becomes challenging
Good communication is an important part of a relationship, and that becomes even more important in long distance relationships. But you know what? In LDRs, even communication becomes quite challenging due to time zone differences, a hectic schedule, or signal issues in the area.
And inconsistent communication leads to misunderstandings, doubts and insecurities in a relationship. As a result, it majorly impacts long distance relationships.
This is just one of the harsh facts about long distance relationships that you’ll have to deal with, as there are many more on the list.
2. No physical intimacy for too long
Physical intimacy makes a huge difference and even helps bind your relationship. The happiness you feel while holding hands, cuddling or enjoying some private moments is something no one can put into words.
But in long-distance relationships, you literally crave those adorable little things because you have to wait for them for too long. No text messages, video calls or gifts can match the magic of face-to-face interaction. Over time, you’ll see the impact of a lack of physical intimacy on your relationship.
This is the reality of a long-distance relationship, which you cannot ignore, as you have to deal with it if you’re stepping into one.
3. Loneliness hits too hard
Here is another of the main harsh facts about long distance relationships, i.e., loneliness. Even after having a loving partner, a long-distance relationship makes you feel lonely. And that sometimes hits you too hard, leaving you frustrated. Such emotions and struggles are not easy to handle on your own.
Moreover, when you see other couples around who are having fun and doing things together, you miss your partner even more. And that may disappoint you even more. In the long run, you’ll clearly see the impact of such things on your emotional health as well as on your relationship.
4. Have no certainty of when this phase will end
There is always uncertainty in a long-distance relationship because some things are not in your control, which lengthens this phase. And you never know when this phase of waiting or staying away from each other ends. For this, you literally need a lot of patience.
But when the waiting period goes on for too long, the chances are high that you will start losing interest in each other. And as a result, you start to drift apart. So again, you guys need to put in extra effort, even though you are left with no patience.
These are the real challenges, and only your personal experience shows you the seriousness of them.
Read more: What kills long-distance relationships?
5. Travel expenses cause more stress
Long-distance relationships simply mean additional travel costs each time you meet your special someone. And, when the locations are far apart, the cost of travel expenses causes too much stress. That, at one point or another, impacts your relationship.
There are moments when you can’t make the time to see your partner, and there are other times when you can’t afford the additional costs of travel. Time keeps passing by like this, making it impossible for you two to meet.
Your relationship is constantly being tested by distance, in one way or another. At minimum, you should be aware of the potential challenges you might face if you find yourself in one.
6. Increases the chances of infidelity
In addition to resulting in dissatisfaction and anxiety, the absence of physical closeness and loneliness in LDRs raises the possibility of cheating. Everyone is looking for someone who meets their physical and emotional needs, so although it’s not always the case, the chances are good. Although it sounds gross, that is just the reality.
This means that you need to work extra hard to stay faithful and maintain a strong emotional connection with your partner. Don’t give up, this stage will soon come to an end.
7. More chances of having a breakup
According to Wikipedia, about 40% of LDRs fail, as couples end up with a breakup. The reasons for this high percentage are inconsistent communication, a lack of physical intimacy, loneliness and infidelity.
Because if you’re physically close, it gets easier for you to resolve issues on time before it’s too late. While the distance builds between your relationships, things get complicated and even difficult to resolve. This is again one of the harsh facts about long distance relationships.
End verdict:
The reason behind sharing those harsh facts about long distance relationships is that it is difficult and challenging. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t succeed; you just need to overcome a number of challenges to make it work for you.
One thing to always keep in mind is that, if you both put your all into the situation, you can find a way to overcome the challenges. To achieve this, be more devoted to your partner, communicate more, be there for them whenever they need you, surprise them with gifts, and schedule more frequent get-togethers.
I am aware that being in one can occasionally be draining, but dedication and loyalty can get you through this stage. Good luck to you!
