There are wrongdoings that will kill any relationship, and then there are crimes unique to long-distance relationships. I’ve had to learn about some of these the hard way: My first relationship ever was a long-distance relationship, but luckily, three and a half years later, here we are.
Having distance be a part of my first relationship wasn’t easy. It was like skipping the tutorial and all of the levels in a video game to go head to head with the Boss. A long-distance relationship requires 10 times more effort, trust and communication than a regular relationship. I wish I had had someone to give me guidance on what to do or what not to do in a relationship, much less a long-distance one.
That’s why I’m here: to give you the basics of what I’ve learned about the seven deadly mistakes that could potentially end your long-distance relationship.
Comparing your relationship with other people’s relationships
Constantly comparing your relationship with other people’s relationships only makes your partner feel horrible for not being able to give you what you want in the relationship. Be thankful for what you have, and understand that you’re not the only one dealing with the distance—your partner is, too.
Being intimate with another person
Obviously don’t “Netflix and chill” with another person. But what might not be so obvious is that you can cheat by being emotionally intimate with someone. There will be times when you might not have much time to spend with your significant other on romantic Skype dates. But that isn’t an excuse fill that void with the attention of another potential love interest. Your significant other might still consider that cheating, even if nothing sexual was involved.
Letting your relationship get boring
Because there are oceans between you and only technology to bridge the gap, boredom can silently creep into a long-distance relationship. Sure, the first few weeks were lovely—you had so much to talk about as you were getting to know each other—but a common problem that people in long-distance relationships face is running out of things to say. Don’t constrain your relationship to just texting. Be creative, and find new ways to spend time together.
Not communicating or listening properly
During conflicts, some people run their mouth and don’t listen while others stay quiet and don’t talk at all. Both are bad. For one, if all you’re doing is blabbing your mouth, then you’re not being respectful of your significant other’s feelings and what they have to say. On the flip side, if you’re just sitting there not expressing your feelings, then not only will nothing be resolved, but also those feelings will probably be bottled up and will explode on another day. Learn how to handle conflict even when you’re 1,000 miles apart.
Being in love with the idea of love
You need to know that there will be ups and downs in your relationship. You are both human with your own personalities and flaws. There will be times when you mess up, and other times when they mess up. There will also be times when your significant other is going through a rough time, so they won’t be able to be as romantic or attentive to you. It’s important that you are in love with them and not just the idea of them.
Not giving enough time to your partner—or giving too much time
Why bother being in a relationship if you’re not willing to put time into it? A relationship is a commitment, and you can’t neglect it and expect your relationship to live. On the flip side, you cannot spend every hour, every minute or every second with your significant other—no matter how much some of us might want to. Make sure you talk at least once every few days, and plan your Skype dates ahead of time so you’re on the same page.
Denying that you’re wrong and not taking responsibility
No one said swallowing your pride was easy. But think of it this way: Is protecting your own pride worth losing your relationship? By repeatedly denying that what you did to your significant other was wrong, you are belittling them and invalidating their feelings. Acknowledge that you hurt them, and apologize. (Your apology shouldn’t include the word “but.”)
I love him so much and I want us to work out, we are barely two months , everyone sees him as a player even my sisters and it hurt me, we have talked about it and so far I haven’t seen him as that, but he loves keeping his space and it hurts at times. So should I give him the space he needs???
Hi I’m ritta and had a long distance relationship for 7 months now. The communication was good not until his true identity came out 😂 f the blue last June 23. I want to have a break from him but I love him and all my attend failed. What shall I do please.
Tracy,
LDR fatigue is usually caused from: not being able get rid of excess baggage, fear of not living up to the expectations of your partner, or from not being fully open with your partner.
Honesty is the best policy as some people say.
Tell your guy what’s causing the fatigue. Communication is crucial.
Hey…just wanted to check in on you. I don’t know who you are but I hope you’re alright. Please don’t do anything harmful to yourself, you are loved by me and by all. You are important. If you want, I can give you my email or something if you ever do need someone to talk. I’m always here
I am in a long distance relationship, but am gradually lossing my interest for my relationship, it is barely 2 month and am already tired, I love him fine but it really boring to me now. Help please before the relationship finally crash
Hey, no what’s wrong things will be okay
Please nick stay positive life is still worth living
I am in trouble…i am to a point beyond and feel so hopeless….i don’t even know why i am so helpless until i type it here…i want to kill myself..
Hello,
My name is Tori. My long term boyfriend and I are currently doing long distance due to our college location. It’s been difficult lately and I was hoping you had advice for speaking with someone. I’ve been thinking about us doing couples therapy together to help us continue working on our relationship. If you have any therapist/professional help recommendations we would greatly appreciate it. The article was very interesting to learn the basics of long distance. Thank you!