Signs A Long Distance Relationship Isn't Right For You
Long distance relationships aren't for everyone. No matter how genuine your love might be, being separated from your sweetie can take a toll on even the strongest of relationships.
According to Bustle, approximately 40 percent of people in long distance relationships are destined to break up. This means that, while your long distance relationship isn't doomed from the get-go, you should only be in one if you're prepared to handle it.
If you're second guessing whether or not a long distance relationship is right for you, that might be one sign that it isn't. To make sure that it's not just insecurity, though, here are some other signs that a long distance relationship isn't right for you.
How to know if you're cut out for a long distance relationship
For some couples, long distance is a good thing. It gives them time to get to know each other without getting distracted by the physical part of their relationship. For others, though, long distance simply isn't sustainable. If you hate talking on the phone or texting, you might not be able to maintain enough intimacy with your partner when you're far apart.
If you have trust issues, a long distance relationship is just asking for trouble. Not seeing your partner regularly can lead to insecurity about the relationship and mess with your head. This is especially true if you're in a new relationship that is transitioning into a long distance relationship. Because you haven't had time to build up trust, being far apart adds that much more pressure.
Other signs that a long distance relationship isn't right for you are that you get lonely easily, are prone to jealousy, or need physical touch to feel connected to someone. "If physical affection is one of your top needs, you risk feeling more unloved without your partner being consistently physically present," said Anita Chlipala, author of First Comes Us: The Busy Couple's Guide to Lasting Love. "You also risk not feeling as satisfied in a relationship without a top need being met."
How to know when to get out of a long distance relationship
If you're already in a long distance relationship, watch out for signs that it isn't working out. If you're having trouble communicating, or the communication feels one-sided, those are signs that the long distance relationship isn't working. Communication is critical in any relationship, but especially in one that's long distance. "[Distance] forces you to communicate and get to know each other on a different level," professional counselor Dr. Lisa Vallejos told Refinery29. "The only connection you have is by communication, so it can foster a deeper sense of intimacy."
While a long distance relationship will, of course, have limitations, your emotional needs should still be met. If they aren't, it's time to move on.