Long Distance Relationships

You’ve been working hard, pulling long shifts and really kissing your bosses you-know-what. And finally, you are offered a promotion; a high-paying, awesome new job. But there is only one catch. It’s two states away, and you just got really close with a new boyfriend. Whatever is a girl to do?

Although it sounds and feels impossible, the truth is, long-distance relationships can work, with the right commitment, maintenance, and understanding. However, you and your mate should ask yourselves a few questions before you decide to make it work despite the miles.

1. Will you be faithful?
Although you might think you’re going to sit at home and talk on the phone with him every night, the truth is you’re going to want to go out. With a stressful new job, you’re going to wanna blow off steam with new friends and colleagues. If you were tempted to stray when you lived 5 miles apart, imagine the possibility of cheating when you’re 500 miles apart. Even if you are 100% sure that you will be faithful, be honest with yourself: will he? The ease of websites like LavaLife will make it quite easy for him to find a quick, no-strings attached hookup. You should be sure that you are both totally committed.

2. Will you eventually reunite?
Let’s get real here. The first few times you visit each other, it will be so exciting and romantic you may think you can keep up the distance for as long as necessary. But the truth is, no long-term relationships can last if you are only seeing each other once a month or maybe less. Plan on a date, perhaps a year from now, that you will make a choice, to either reunite or end the relationship. This will mean a move on you or your mates part, so this will be a big step. If neither of you can see yourselves moving, the relationship probably will not last.

3. Can you commit to regularly calling and visiting?

Having conversations with your mate should be a high priority, so you should agree on how regularly you will talk. Will it be once a day or more than three times a week? If one of you feels neglected or suffocated, the relationship will become strained. Also, with a new job, you can not assume you will be able to take time off, so visits between the two of you will probably be squeezed in during weekends and holidays. Can you commit to doing that? Another way to simulate being together is using video-chat sites like Skype.com, when you are unable to visit.

Living apart can strengthen a relationship exponentially, but can just as easily cause the end. Make sure to ask yourself these questions, so you can ensure that your relationship will be healthy and successful!