Is Living Apart Good for a Relationship?

With the modern lifestyle, living apart is becoming more and more common, often referred to as a semi-relationship. In the past, young people would not live together until marriage, an era that perhaps seemed more conventional. However, in today's diverse and open-minded society, relationships can be of various types: a totally committed one, a simple friendship with benefits without exclusivity, or something in between. It's important to define what kind of relationship you want before deciding which type suits you best.

The Dynamics of Separate Living and Relationship Strength

Living apart can sometimes affect the strength of a relationship, especially when partners do not leave together. Traditionally, a relationship strengthened when the partners cohabited. Today, however, a thriving relationship does not necessarily require living together. When partners live together, the bond can become more robust, and love can deepen. However, living apart also has its advantages, such as the balance of distance and closeness.

The Flexibility of Separate Living

Living apart offers flexibility. Instead of feeling like 'girlfriend' or 'boyfriend,' partners can maintain their individuality and connections. You can gauge the level of interest and involvement in each other's lives, whether it's through casual meetings or maintaining a healthy distance. With flexibility comes the ability to decide whether to meet or not, which can be refreshing in a relationship. However, there's also the need to acknowledge that this freedom can sometimes lack the commitment that cohabitation might provide.

The Importance of Commitment in Unmarried Couples

For unmarried couples, living together without a commitment is generally not seen as a strong or meaningful relationship. Commitment is an essential aspect of any relationship, but as Nirvritananda points out, truth and reality can be painful. If a couple is not married and does not share a meaningful commitment, their relationship may lack the depth and stability needed to thrive.

The Pros and Cons of Separate Living

The decision to live apart or together has both its pros and cons. If you choose to live apart, you may miss out on the negatives that come with living closely with someone, such as witnessing their flaws. You have the privacy to observe and appreciate the good side of your partner. However, when you live together, you benefit from a more comprehensive understanding of who they are, both good and bad. This might help in making informed decisions about your future together, such as marriage.

Conclusion

Deciding whether living apart is good for a relationship depends on several factors, including the specific dynamics of your relationship. No situation is absolute; it's always better to be close from afar than to be far from close. Ultimately, communication and mutual understanding are key to navigating the complexities of relationship dynamics. Which option works best for you will depend on your individual circumstances and what you seek in a relationship.