We've all heard heart-melting stories of lovers being together despite great distances and although we all dream of such a powerful connection, not many of us are prepared to make compromises for it.

In today's busy world most of us view unbreakable love as something from a cheesy film and are much more focused on compatibility and attraction. Do we have common interests, do we feel good with each other and how much fun we have in bed are some of the criteria by which we judge our possible partners. Some lucky few claim they experienced the magnificent phenomenon called 'Love at first sight' but we tend to place this on the 'fantasy' shelf as well.

And even though we don't have to rely on the super romantic love letter to communicate to our partners when they're away, seeing each other on Face-time is not quite the same as sleeping in the same bed. The human need for touch and closeness can't really be satisfied by technology however advanced it might become. So can a long distance relationship really work?

So what do we need to stay in a long-distance relationship?

A really strong connection

This is common sense but we shouldn't compromise unless there's really something there. Long distance relationships are pretty hard, but when another person means a lot to us we can deal with the issues that may come up.

Strong plans for the future

Probably the most important thing to consider is whether the situation is temporary. If the plan is to be together fairly soon, it's much easier to accept a period of separation and remain faithful to each other. But if it doesn't seem probable that you will move closer to each other in the near future, you should think whether it's worth it.

Ways to meet pretty often

If you live in different cities but are able to see each other every week, then it's not so bad. It's probably even better in some aspects as you are able to have separate lives and privacy as well as the romantic reunions. Also you never get bored or tired of each other (unless you text all day) and dates are much more fun. But this can also work only temporary, as most of us need the comfort of living together at some point in our lives.
If you live in different country and may not be able to see each other for months then it's probably not worth the struggle. After a while your completely separate lives may get between you and that connection will start fading.

Lots and lots of trust

If you're planing to have an open relationship, that's great, probably better. But if your long-distance relationship is monogamous, you need to trust that you're partner will stay faithful, regardless of how often you meet. When you start doubting, it's over. If for whatever reason you don't fully trust your partner, you should not try and stay together. This is actually valid for normal relationships as well.

The person who knows best is you. Pay attention to how you feel and most importantly, don't stay with someone for the wrong reasons - such as not wanting to hurt them or feeling guilty. Relationships should improve our lives, so if you think yours is making it harder, think about it.