The Secret To Long-Distance Relationships: Managing Expectations

The Secret To Long-Distance Relationships: Managing Expectations

Long-distance relationships can be really tough, but they certainly aren’t impossible. According to a recent study, the trick is understanding the situation you’re in together.

Photo by epSos. de

You might think that a relationship would be harder the further you’re away from someone, but lead researcher Emma Dargie found the opposite in her study published in the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy. Couples that were further way seemed to be happier, suggesting that the actual distance apart doesn’t doom your relationship:

According to our research, it’s not necessarily how far apart you are or how little you see your partners. It’s more about the discrepancy between your expectations for relationships and the reality of the current situation.

Essentially, it came down to good communication and being on the same page as your partner. Be aware of time differences, plan meetings that work well for both of you, and respect each other’s needs. You should also both expect to have lives outside of the relationship. It keeps you both busy so you’re not dwelling on the fact that you’re apart. That doesn’t mean you can’t make time to talk and be there for them, but it at least gives you things to talk about when you do make time. Keep both of your expectations on the same level and you’ll have a better chance of making it.

Go Long! Predictors of Positive Relationship Outcomes in Long-Distance Dating Relationships [Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy via Business Insider]


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