How to Survive a Long Distance Relationship

For most of us, our romantic relationships are the most important and meaningful in our lives; they are also the most emotional and complicated. The usual challenges that couples face every day can seem even more difficult when faced with a long distance relationship. Long distance relationships are becoming more and more common, due to things like online dating, job transfers, study abroad programmes, etc., and more couples are now romantically involved with somebody who lives miles away.

It is often quoted by many that ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’, and recent studies have proven that couples who do not see each other often have more meaningful and intimate interactions, and appreciate each other more when they do get to spend time together. However, when there are countless miles between you, and long stretches of time between when you see each other, it can possibly put a strain on things. Here we take a look at some suggestions on how to survive a long distance relationship, and really strengthen your relationship.

Communication is key

When you don’t get to see each other on a daily or even weekly, or monthly basis, it is especially important to communicate. Luckily, with modern technology, it is easier than ever to keep in touch with people all over the world. Take advantage of things like video calling, instant messaging, texting, and even email. When you’re separated from each other and both leading busy lives, possibly in different countries and time zones, it is important to make some time for each other every day.

Aside from technology, it is a nice idea to surprise your partner occasionally with things like letters or gifts, sent in the mail. Everybody loves receiving mail, and a handwritten letter is so much more personal than a text or an email.

Another part of communication is making sure you are open and honest with each other. If something is bothering you, it is important to tell your partner so that you can sort it out, instead of letting it build up and fester, and get worse. It is important to be able to trust each other. One benefit of long distance that you can take advantage if there is something you need to get off your chest is that you have time to think and to broach it in different ways. Instead of possibly creating an argument by articulating something wrong, which is what could happen in person, you can send your partner an email, which gives you the chance to say exactly what you need to say, and express it in a much better way.

Keep the romance alive

Obviously one of the biggest drawbacks of being away from your partner is the lack of romantic and intimate relations, and this can sometimes cause quite a strain. It is important to keep the romance alive despite the distance. Arrange ‘dates’ on skype where you both do something together, such as cooking and eating the same meal, or watching a film or a TV show; doing the same activity at the same time will help you feel as though you are together. Get creative; make a scrapbook, a playlist, or something else that reminds you of each other. Send your partner flowers, or a love letter, telling them how you feel about them and why. Do what you can to make sure that they always know how much you love them, and feel secure that you are going to stay together.

Plan ahead

It is unlikely that you will be long distance forever, so be positive and plan ahead, and ensure that both of you know where the relationship is headed. While you’re still long distance, plan ahead for visits, and decide what you’re going to do while you’re with each other; this will help keep you both excited and thinking positive. However, also plan ahead for a time when the long distance ends, and what will happen afterwards; this gives you a goal to aim for, and can encourage you when times get tough and you feel like giving up. Know that the relationship is worth all of the time and miles apart.