Long-distance relationships seem to get a bad rap in the dating world, and I think that's a little unfair. While unconventional and certainly not ideal, LDRs aren't the worst thing in the world. They offer a lot of experiences that you may not get in a typical traditional relationship. Here's a list of 5 things I've learned after spending the past two years in a long-distance relationship of my own.

1. You give each other a lot of space.

For introverts like me, it can get a little tiring to spend a lot of time with another person or group of people. Most introverted people need alone time, and for those in a long-distance relationship, they will certainly find enough of it. While too much space can become a problem, of course, it's good to be able to spend some time by yourself doing your own thing. Independence is really important and being clung to in a traditional relationship can strip that away.

2. You're able to separate your own identity from your partner's.

Having space also means you won't become the same person. Relationships can get really boring if you act the same, like the same things, and think the same as your partner. Just like opposites attract, couples should be able to have their own identities different from each other. You're able to have your own group of friends and do things that you enjoy, while your partner can have different friends and things they enjoy.

3. You learn to value patience.

Anyone who's ever been in an LDR knows it's tedious and even painful waiting until the next time you see your partner. Something that I've learned is that if you concentrate on that day coming, it will feel a lot slower than if you take your mind off of it. Instead of spending all your time thinking about it, just fill your time with things you enjoy doing and time will fly by.

4. You care a lot less about looks.

Looks are definitely an important factor in a partner because you can't truly enjoy a relationship with someone to whom you aren't attracted. But when you can't always see your partner in person or even over video chat, you begin to value their personality so much more. Someone's attractiveness never matters as much as their personality, because the kind of person your partner is ultimately is what reels you in.

5. You never take for granted the time spent with your partner.

You know how precious every moment is. I often find myself counting down the hours until I have to say goodbye and hoping that it never comes. Because of that, those in LDRs come to appreciate every second spent together. People in traditional relationships might not develop this appreciation because they never have to spend time away from their partner for an extended period of time.