Long Distance Relationship (“LDR”)

Regardless of the teary goodbyes, lonely nights and shocking phone bills there are in fact many LDR around. But, the question is how many do survive?

According to some research done, it suggests that “LDR don't break up at any greater rate than traditional, geographically close ones. Plus, multiple studies have found that LDR couples' levels of relationship satisfaction, intimacy, trust, and commitment are identical to their geographically close counterparts. LDR couples might worry more about infidelity, but they don't actually cheat more.”

I was reading one article the other day regarding LDR from Mary E. Morrison. According to Ms Mary, there are guidelines for LDR survival that helps to reduce long distance distress. The experts has suggested that people in LDR has to make plans ahead. For examples, how long will the separation be and a schedule for expected and surprise visits. This will reduce lots of tension and uncertainty between the two. In fact, these surprise visits will draw the two even closer.

The next guide is to discuss the ground rule. The purpose of this discussion is to lay down rules and set restrictions about interactions with other people that could be a hazard to the relationship. Furthermore, couples who discuss such rules will face less relationship breakdown.

LDR couples (especially new ones) should deal with conflicts immediately. Why is it so? Well, simple as it seems, the distance is already hard enough couple with the lack of body language can results in a disaster if these conflicts are confronted right away. Therefore, in order to eliminate the unnecessary discomfort, communication is the key.

As mentioned earlier, couples in LDR should not be agitated over petty stuff. Couple should remember that they will be exceptionally more sensitive just before and after reunion. So, if the partner tends to be bad-tempered, touchy, grouchy, grumpy and started to pick a fight or finding faults over small things, try to just let it go. Always remember that the distance is already bad enough.

Another useful way is to share your daily life through emails, phone calls and text messages. Sending email twice or more a day can helps reassuring the other half that you still remember them or in fact miss them.

The next advice given by the author is to develop a strong network of friends and family members. Couple who has strong network of friends tends to tolerate and have higher satisfaction in the relationship and in life.

The final advice given is to always stay optimistic. Thinking positive is the LDR greatest friend. Of course, LDR do have its own issues. You have to learn to deal with it and just don’t let other people convince you that LDR don’t work. Mental health is another important factor in making LDR flourishing. Good luck!