Question from Jay E.: My girlfriend and I are about to be separated by an ocean and an 8-hour time difference. Technology has made it so much easier to stay connected, but how can we make it feel genuine in a romantic relationship, especially with the large time gap?
Long-distance relationships have been made easier by advancements in technology, but it’s still important for you and your partner to find your groove and feel connected despite the distance. Let our relationship experts help by offering their best dating advice for using technology in the right way! Learn valuable dating tips from matchmaker Suzanne Oshima and relationship author Robert Manni. Here, they answer your question about how technology can make a long-distance relationship work. Check out their dating advice below!
Dating Advice for Long-Distance Relationships
Suzanne K. Oshima, Matchmaker: A long-distance relationship actually takes a lot more work and effort than a relationship where you both live in the same city. Because you can’t see her in person, your only option is to connect with her through virtual forms of communication. While it can be stressful and lonely, technology offers a great way to make it through the hard times.
The great thing is, you both always have your phones on you. So texting is perfect for a quick flirt or to let her know you’re thinking of her during your busy work day. However, texting should never be your sole means of communication. To keep your long-distance relationship going, phone calls and FaceTime or Skype are much better for connecting on a more intimate level. Try setting a regular time that works best to have a call. This way, you’ll both have something to look forward to that helps make the time apart pass by a little easier and faster
And the truth of the matter is… When it comes to a relationship, no matter how “busy” you both are, you will make time for those things that are important to you! Sure, it may be difficult at first to get past the hurdle of the time difference, but experiment with your communication and never be afraid to try out new things.
Related Link: Dating Advice Q&A: How Has Technology Changed the Way We Date?
Robert Manni, Guy’s Guy: Long-distance relationships are tricky, and unique. Technology helps, but time, distance, and presence are the key variables for potential success. Circumspection is a good starting point. Ask yourself the following questions: How serious is the relationship? How far away is s/he moving and for how long? Will s/he be close enough so you can see one another on weekends? If not, how long will you be separated? Is this a permanent move? How badly do you want it to work? And what sacrifices are you willing to make to keep things going?
It’s great to be romantic, and Skype certainly comes in handy with long-distance relationships, but let’s be practical. If your partner is moving to Australia for five years or more, the odds of staying together are less than optimal. If s/he has been transferred to the Chicago office and you’re in New York, the odds of success are better due to proximity. The old saying, “Out of sight, out of mind” often rings true in these circumstances. Long-distance relationships can work, but listen to your heart and your head before committing yourself. Good luck.
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