There is enough negativity out there surrounding long distance relationships. If you have feelings for someone that lives far away (whether they’re a few hours away, or a few states away) but you’re not sure if it’s smart to progress towards a relationship, I can understand the hesitation. We all know the reasons why long distance relationships are hard, and why sometimes they don’t work out. We are all well aware of the hardships that come with being away from your significant other, I don’t have to remind you. That being said, as someone who spent nearly 4 years dating long-distance, I do feel compelled to remind you that it’s not all bad.
IT'S NOT ALL BAD
I feel like they’re are not enough positive responses to the topic, even though there are several wonderful benefits to entering a long distance relationship.
So whether you’re debating if you should ask out that person across state lines, or just need some positive reminders of why you’re dating long distance in the first place- here are the 4 benefits to a long distance relationship (according to someone who is always trying to look on the bright side.
You become an expert at communication
Passive aggressive eye rolling and heavy sighs are no longer a viable option when you’re upset about something and you want your partner to get the hint. Since you can’t rely on the physical ques to do your dirty work for you, you are forced to learn how to verbally communicate your feelings to the other person. For some people, this can be difficult at first- especially if you’re not used to sharing your feelings all the time. Regardless of your skill level when you start out, long distance relationships will turn you into a seasoned pro. Let’s not forget that communication is the number one, MOST IMPORTANT, key to any successful relationship. So, in theory, if you’re constantly practicing good communication then your long distance relationship has the potential to be the strongest, most authentic, and most healthy relationship you’ve ever been in.
Easier to Balance Your Other Obligations, like School or Work
There are certain times in our lives where school or work should be our first priority. In order to achieve our goals, sometimes it’s best to be without any major distractions. Long distance relationships allow you to have that romantic relationship, without taking away from that nice looking grade point average or job promotion. It can be really difficult to manage your responsibilities when you have a much more appealing option in front of you- your significant other. In long distance relationships you don’t have that human distraction standing in front of you.
When I started my long distance relationship I has just transferred to dream school, where I was entering a very demanding and competitive film program. I needed to find new friendships, join new clubs, and adapt to a completely new environment. I had a lot on my plate and I couldn’t afford to lose focus on these things- but at the same time, the universe (or God, whatever you believe) has a way of suprising us when we least expect it. I personally believe that life’s timing is always perfect- whether it appears that way or not. So when someone special enters your life, I believe it happened at that particular moment for a reason. When that moment occured for me, and I had this “once in a lifetime” kind of guy in my life, I knew I had to make it work no matter what. The fact that we started out in a long distance relatinship, at that point in my life, was an absolute blessing because I was able to have the best of both worlds. I was able to tackle my responsibilities at school, and work, and I didn’t have to turn down the opportunity to date the greatest guy on earth.
You Learn How to Truly Appreciate Your Time Together
The term “long-distance” can mean a lot of different things. For some couples, that distance is a two-hour drive. For others, “distance” means different countries. Either way, it hurts to be apart- so your time together becomes even more valuable. In long distance relationships you learn how to truly appreciate someone’s company, and their physical presence in your life. When you don’t always have the option to spend holidays together, you make the ones you can spend together even more special. You take more pictures, spend less time on your phone, and make the most of every second. There is something really wonderful that comes out of this kind of undivided attention. I found that I started practicing this in other areas of my life- offering people my full focus and truly tuning in to conversation.
You Fall In Love for All The Right Reasons
Falling madly in love isn’t exclusive to long-distance relationships, obviously, but it certainly sets a solid foundation for happily-ever-afters. Sure, to many people long-distance relationships are associated with “epic-failure” and “sure-heartbreak.” The distance doesn’t make it easy- but it does make it worthwhile. If you and your significant other are willing to work through the tough times, then your relationship will reward you indefinitely. In LDR, you form strong connections that must be built upon more than just appearance and physical attraction. When the only accessible part of the other person is their mind, you learn how to fall in love with that first. It is incredible to experience the kind of unity, understanding, and love that prospers from that connection. You can be proud of the power and stability in your long-distance relationship, because you’ve earned it. And if you are fortunate enough to “close the gap” one day, your relationship will be able to grow from something strong and durable.
Read more about my tips for a healthy long-distance relationship that will last: