Long distance relationships can be challenging to maintain due to the physical distance, lack of communication and the need for trust, especially when there are no specific or guaranteed timelines for reunions. With all the challenges you face, there are some tips that can help you keep your long-distance relationship strong and survive the distance.
What is a long-distance relationship?
A long-distance relationship is a romantic relationship between two people who live far apart and cannot always be physically present with one another. This can be due to work, education, family obligations, or any other reason.
How to make a long-distance relationship work?
1. Communication is key
Communication is essential in any relationship, but it becomes more important in a long-distance relationship. Regular communication via phone, video calls, email or text can help you stay connected to your partner.
- Set specific times to communicate with your partner
- Be honest and open about your feelings
- Keep each other updated about your lives
- Don’t forget to say “I love you” and express your affection daily
2. Set expectations and goals
Setting expectations and goals is essential in any relationship, but even more so when you’re in a long-distance one. Ensure that both you and your partner have a clear understanding of what you expect out of the relationship and where you both see yourselves in the future.
- Agree on how often you’ll visit each other
- Set a timeline for reunions
- Discuss your future aspirations and goals
- Make plans and work together to achieve them
3. Trust each other
Trust is the foundation of any relationship, and even more so when you’re far apart from each other. Trusting your partner is essential in a long-distance relationship to maintain a strong bond.
- Be honest and transparent
- Avoid jealousy and don’t jump to conclusions without discussing things with your partner
- Trust their actions and intentions
- Confront your fears and anxieties and discuss them with your partner
4. Focus on the positive
It’s easy to get caught up in the negative aspects of a long-distance relationship, such as the distance and the time spent apart. Focus on the positive aspects and celebrate milestones and achievements together.
- Share your daily life with your partner, including the good things that happen to you
- Celebrate special occasions and milestones virtually
- Be grateful for the time you get to spend with each other, even if it’s virtual
- Keep your partner informed about your life, and try to be part of theirs as much as possible
5. Keep the romance alive
Distance shouldn’t kill the romance in your relationship. There are many ways to keep the romance alive in a long-distance relationship.
- Surprise your partner with thoughtful gestures, like sending flowers or a handwritten letter
- Watch a movie together while on video call
- Send care packages
- Plan virtual date nights
6. Keep yourself busy
One of the biggest challenges of a long-distance relationship is the loneliness you might feel when your partner isn’t around. Keeping yourself engaged can help in overcoming these feelings.
- Pursue your hobbies and interests
- Spend time with friends and family
- Take up new activities
- Set goals for yourself and work towards them
Conclusion
Long-distance relationships require effort, commitment and patience to withstand the challenges that come with them. Honesty in communication, trust, and setting expectations and goals are some of the things that can help your relationship survive the distance. Remember to focus on the positive and keep the romance alive to keep your connection strong, even when you’re far apart.
Common questions about long-distance relationships
- 1. Are long-distance relationships worth it?
- 2. How do I cope with the loneliness in a long-distance relationship?
- 3. How often should I visit my long-distance partner?
- 4. Can long-distance relationships work out in the long run?
- 5. How do I build trust in a long-distance relationship?
Yes, long-distance relationships can be worth it if both people are committed to making it work and have trust in each other. The distance can be challenging at times, but it can also help to build a strong bond.
One way to cope with loneliness is by keeping yourself busy and engaged in other activities that interest you. Maintaining communication with your partner and spending quality time together when possible can also help.
How often you visit your partner will depend on your schedules and finances. It’s essential to agree on a visitation schedule that works for both of you. It can be weekly, biweekly, monthly or quarterly. This should be discussed and planned ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Yes, long-distance relationships can work out in the long run if both people are committed to making it work and have a clear understanding of what they expect. It’s essential to plan for the future and take steps to ensure that the distance is temporary.
Building trust in a long-distance relationship can be achieved through communication, honesty and transparency. Avoid hiding things from your partner and be open about your feelings and intentions. It’s essential to trust your partner’s actions and intentions.
References
- Guldner, G. T. (2017). Long distance relationships: Staying close and staying Satisfied.
- Stafford, L. (2015). Maintaining long distance and cross residential relationships. Journal of social and personal relationships, 32(7), 967-969.
- Van Horn, R., & Witmer, J. (2016). Long distance relationships: A review of relevant literature. Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, 26(3-4), 323-333.