Let’s be honest — long distance relationships are tough. No one wakes up in the morning thinking, “Man, I’m glad the person I love is so far away!” (And if you do, maybe it’s time to rethink the relationship.)
That said, there are ways to make it work, and our experts are offering their best advice. Here are 10 tips to help get you through your long distance relationship:
1. Doing things together, while you’re apart
Technology has come a long way for people in long distance relationships. A shared, virtual activity is the long distance couple’s date night! Watch a Netflix show together in real time, try cooking the same dinner recipe, or choose a fun, distance-friendly gift for you both to use. Choose whatever works best for you!
2. Scheduling time to hang out
Random phone calls are always on the table, but it’s also important to schedule time together. Maybe you both order a pizza while hanging out on Zoom or plan a Facetime call before bed. Making time for each other gives you both something to look forward to when the days get tough.
3. Finding the right amount of communication
Be honest about how much communication you need. Do you prefer an occasional check-in or constant texts and calls throughout the day? Long distance relationships require a lot of trust and patience, and being on the same page about communication helps maintain both.
4. Going old school
Texting and emailing are quick, but aren’t the best ways to express emotion. How about writing a love letter? It’s a unique, fun way to convey passion that’s hard to express over the glare of a computer screen.
5. Respecting the reason for being apart
Avoid the guilt trip! No matter your reason for being apart, it shouldn’t cause any animosity between the two of you. If you’re committed enough to stay together despite the distance, you should be committed to respecting the reason for it.
6. Setting boundaries
Since you’re not physically together, you’ll need to keep an open mind about their life without you (as hard as that can be). Setting realistic boundaries helps you better understand each other’s needs and expectations.
7. Enjoying your personal life
Life can be tough without your partner, but it’s important to have fun by yourself. After all, you need to be happy with yourself before you can be happy with someone else, right?
8. Meeting up
The best part of any long distance relationship is the reunion! Scheduling your in-person time together is absolutely essential to maintain a physical connection. Have fun planning it!
9. Talking about your future
At some point, you’ll need to address your future together, since you don’t want to suffer through long distance forever! Making a plan reminds you that it’s not a permanent situation, which really helps on those extra rough days.
10. Getting some help!
Circling back to our initial statement — long distance relationships are tough! If you’re in need of a little help, there are so many resources available, from relationship coaches to support groups.
Staying connected in your long distance relationship isn’t always easy, but it’s 100% doable if you put in the effort. You may be apart physically, but with the above tips, you’ll feel a closeness just as satisfying.
