6 Mistakes to Avoid In a Long-distance Relationship

There are both advantages and disadvantages to being in a long-distance relationship. Some people use the distance to their advantage – they are able to slowly open up to the idea of a relationship without the partner being constantly around. Also, this type of separation sometimes helps the relationship stay fresh. On the other hand, that very separation is quite often the source of partners’ frustrations, since there is no actual physical intimacy while they’re apart. The fact that the partner is not around 24/7 is indisputably the reason why most long-distance relationships eventually come to an end. There are, however, other things that make keeping this kind of relationship alive difficult.

1. Being Jealous and Not Having Trust in Your Partner

Trust in your partner plays a vital part in any relationship, even more so if the two are apart and unable to see each other on a regular basis. The inability to constantly observe and “control” your partner may lead to unfounded displays of jealousy, which lead to unnecessary tension between the two of you. When you get in a situation that may lead to a fit of jealous rage, stop for a moment. Think things through and always bear in mind that even Shakespeare knew that there is no feeling more destructive than jealousy.

2. Not Letting Your Partner Breathe

A long-term separation may bring about much insecurity about the partner and the relationship itself. One (or both) of the partners may feel the need to overcompensate for the time spent apart from sending a heap of text messages or emails. This can easily backfire and have the opposite effect. Paying too much attention to your partner’s whereabouts and personal on-goings will most certainly result in the partner backing out, first from a conversation, then, eventually, from the relationship.

3. Shutting Your Partner Out

Not wishing to smother their partner, some people go to the other extreme and play the “I’m not checking in first” game. This is a mistake as bad as the one of not giving your partner some space to breathe. You may come off as insensitive, which is something you most certainly wish to avoid. Remember, you love this person. You want to hear about their day. You want to tell them about your day. So… it’s a matter of balance, really. Talk to your partner and figure out a way to communicate with each other without going to either of the extremes.

4. Searching For a Way Out

After a while, some people grow tired of the distance and separation, and start thinking about ending the relationship. Some of them are reluctant to let go despite the fact they don’t believe in the relationship’s potential to be successful. If you are uncertain about the outcome, talk to your partner. They might feel the same way, or they can help you resolve your insecurity.

5. Not Trying Hard Enough

If you’re insecure about the outcome of the relationship, and there is no chance for you and your partner to see each other any time soon, you are at risk of starting to slack up on your “duties”. If you wish to keep the relationship strong, you have to put in the same amount of effort as though the partner is right there beside you.

6. Being Unfaithful

Of course, this mistake is fatal to any relationship. Searching for a third person to fill in for your partner while you’re apart is a huge mistake. However briefly the outsider might have been around doesn’t change the fact that the bond of trust between you and your partner has been broken. If you even consider the possibility of cheating, it’s better to end the relationship right then and there.

To sum things up, long-distance relationships might be hard, but they can work. Sure, they require some extra effort and a bit more patience. But, if the person’s worth it, there is no reason to second-guess your decisions. Arm yourself with patience and be ready to listen very, very carefully to what your partner has to say. Maybe this article has helped you see some of the mistakes you had been making in the past relationships. If so, use it as a guide and avoid future errors. If not, good for you. You are in a successful long-distance relationship already. .