Five harsh facts about long-distance relationships

The harsh facts of long-distance relationships can be emotionally exhausted and difficult to overcome. However, despite their complexity, about 14 million couples in the United States say their partner has lived at least 100 miles or more. In this article, we will explore five reasons that result in a breakup rate of 40% over an average of 5 months apart. In addition, we will present a case study of a couple, through the coaching, able to survive the separation storm.

The harsh facts of long-distance relationships: a lot of effort is required

Long-distance relationships require more communication and more planning than other relationships. This means that partners in long-distance relationships need to make conscious efforts to keep their connection strong, which can be difficult when physically separated. Communication is key, so partners should strive to stay in touch frequently via phone, video chat, Zoom/Skype and text messages. It is also important to establish clear expectations and boundaries, such as the frequency of visits to each other. For example, those couples who broke up within 5 months of separation had little effort to communicate.

The harsh facts of long-distance relationships: They can become expensive

Another harsh fact of long-distance relationships is that they can be expensive. Travel expenses, phone bills and other expenses may increase rapidly. According to a survey by dating app Badoo, people in long-distance relationships spend an average of only $111 a month on travel. This financial burden can create additional stress and tension in the relationship, especially if one of the partners is in school or struggling financially.

Harsh facts about long-distance relationships: New couples are difficult

Long-distance relationships can be particularly difficult for couples who are just starting out. Without a strong trust base and a lot of connections, new couples are easily affected by breaking up.

The harsh facts of long-distance relationships: They consume emotionally

Another harsh reality of long-distance relationships is that they can be emotionally exhausted. Failure to see your partner regularly can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation and depression. In some cases, long-distance relationships can even lead to depression and anxiety.

The harsh facts of long-distance relationships: no clear ending seen

Finally, long-distance relationships can be particularly challenging without a clear end date. In our experience, couples who are separated and have not yet determined a clear end point for separation are more likely to fail. For example, couples who plan to work together, engagement, or other forms of commitment are more likely to succeed when there is a specific end date. Without a clear goal, it can be difficult to stay motivated and commit to this relationship.

Harsh facts of long-distance relationships: Allie and Tom overcome their separation

Ellie and Tom are in a long-distance relationship. They live and work in different cities, only meeting each other every few months. Ellie is struggling with the emotional pressure of being separated from Tom, feeling lonely and isolated.

To cope with the emotional stress of distance, Sarah also spoke with an expert coach who specializes in long-distance relationships. Through coaching, Ellie learns coping strategies to manage her emotions because she feels lonely or sad. For example, her coach recommends meditation and encourages her to join a group that can be practiced with others.

Ellie also decided to engage in a new hobby – painting. She spent the evenings creating beautiful paintings and sharing them with Tom on video chat and on Zoom. Tom was impressed by her talent and encouraged her to continue painting. He surprised her by flying to a weekend so he could see her studio and take her to her favorite museum. They also spend time doing a lot of kisses and sex.

Tom also spoke with Ellie’s coach to get guidance. She encouraged him to stay in touch by scheduling regular phone calls and video chats (at least 5 times a week). Tom really works hard to save money on travel expenses.

Despite the challenges of their long-distance relationship, the couple reunited and moved in together after six months apart. They are now very happy to marry.

in conclusion

All in all, while long-distance relationships can bring rewards and fulfillment, they also present quite a lot of challenges. When couples are separated, they must be prepared to put in extra effort to deal with financial burdens and lead to depression. But with the right way of thinking, commitment and support, long-distance relationships can succeed or even thrive.