Together forever, never apart. Maybe in distance, but never in heart.
Anyone who’s ever been in a long distance relationship knows that reliable Wi-Fi, frequent flyer points, and excellent communication skills are among the many necessities crucial to making that relationship work. Long distance isn’t easy. In fact, maintaining any romantic relationship can be a daunting and difficult task.
The high highs are high but the low lows are low.
Although rewarding when successful, long distance relationships, following their initial bliss can be extremely stressful. Whether it meeting your soulmate while studying abroad or having to part with a loved one because he was offered a job opportunity on the other side of the country, timing and distance can be tricky obstacles to maneuver.
Here are four ways to help set your LD relationship up for longevity and success.
1. Get on the Same Page
Before you and your partner commit to any long distance arrangement, it is extremely important to make sure that you are both on the same page. Discussing the status of your relationship (open or exclusive) and identifying your individual needs will help you and your significant other manage expectations.
2. Become Tech-Savvy
Technologically adept or inept, it’s always a plus to know the ins and outs of communication applications like Skype or Facetime. Seeing your partner, even if only through a screen is still a helpful way to keep your romance alive. Everyone has their way of communicating affection, but consistency will be key in reminding each other that you care.
3. Communicate Effectively
For any relationship to work, both partners must communicate effectively. In regular romantic relationships, you are able to pick up on your partner’s body language and facial expressions. The same, however, proves more difficult in LD relationships. When relying solely on verbal communication, expressing your needs and expectations straight-forwardly will ultimately strengthen your relationship. At the same time, it’s equally important if not more so to be a good listener. Honesty and open-mindedness are the pillars to all healthy relationships.
4. Plan Ahead
Keep your eyes on the prize. Being separated from a loved one can be challenging, especially when seeing that special someone can be days, if not months, into the future. Planning and counting down until your next shared time together can make the long nights less long and dreary. Booking that vacation, looking up flights, and engaging in some harmless daydreaming is always loads of fun.