People are increasingly falling in love with partners on the other side of the world as internet dating becomes a more accepted way to meet the next love of your life. When it comes to love, there are no limits or limitations now more than ever.
However, falling in love is one thing (and it’s frighteningly easy to do with someone you meet online). It’s one thing to fall in love, but it’s another to stay in love, especially when you’re dating long distance.
How can you keep a relationship going when you live far apart from each other, whether you started it online or not? Katie Jones of orlajames.com offers the following advice:
1. Be prepared for it to be hard work
If you decide to pursue a long-distance relationship, be aware that it will require more effort to maintain. When you can’t be physically together, it’s tougher to connect effectively and build true intimacy. You’re setting yourself up for disappointment and frustration if you don’t expect this from the start—if you believe it’ll be simple.
2. Understand that it can work
While working on an LDR is difficult, it can be rewarding. Because you’re in a long-distance relationship, you shouldn’t give up hope of finding your happily ever after. In reality, you may wind up with a deeper and more grounded relationship as a result of your long-distance relationship. If you are devoted and prepared to put in the effort, your relationship has a good chance of succeeding if you both want it to.
3. Be honest, and be yourself
Because of the distance separating you, communication is your only option. It is critical to be truthful and forthright. Don’t pretend to be someone or something you’re not—remember, assuming everything goes well, you’ll have to live with this person one day! So, from the outset, be truthful. This will foster an open and trusting relationship. That will come in handy in the future.
4. Don’t rush into your relationship
It’s easy, especially when meeting someone online, to jump right into deep conversation. It’s understandable–everything is new and exciting!!– But don’t immediately start spilling your heart out and speak too intimately. You must create a lasting relationship over time if you want it to last. Don’t jump in with both feet.
5. Stay safe online
Don’t throw caution to the wind just because you think you’ve found the one. Remember, there is no such thing as a flawless person, and this individual is still a stranger. So be cautious and prudent. If you do agree to meet up, be very cautious regarding personal safety issues. Don’t give out personal identity information, don’t discuss money or bank details, don’t take your clothes off in front of a webcam, and don’t take your clothes off in front of a webcam.
6. Bring the relationship into the real world
Meeting in person is the only way to determine if you have genuine chemistry and a connection that could develop to anything long-term. As a result, wait until you’ve met someone in person before getting too invested in them. Meet in person as soon as possible if you live close by. It’s not so simple when you live far away. It will take longer for you to meet up, but it should be your goal from the minute you begin seriously considering a relationship with someone you met online. But don’t forget to be safe!
7. Don’t get obsessed
Don’t talk on the phone for hours every day. Obsession isn’t good for your health. It’s critical to keep up with your own life and get out and about right from the start. If all you do is talk on the phone, you’ll eventually run out of topics to discuss. Spend time watching movies, reading books, and doing the things you normally do. In any case, maintaining a healthy balance in your life is crucial. You’ll be better off if the relationship doesn’t work out, and if it does, it’ll help you keep things new and interesting so you have something to speak about when you do catch up.