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If love knows no distance, then why can navigating a long distance relationship be so challenging?
Long distance relationships usually require more trust, communication, and independence than your average relationship.
However, when nurtured correctly, they can be just as fulfilling as any other romantic connection.
The distance teaches you to appreciate the little things and makes your actual time together extra precious. But how exactly can you make one work? Here’s everything you need to know.
Our Advice on How to Navigate a Long Distance Relationship
Have clear expectations
Not living in the same city or country means it’s easier for couples to lose sight of their connection and future together.
This is why it’s so important to be clear about what you expect from the relationship and with each other from the beginning.
How often will you stay in touch? How frequently do you plan on seeing each other in person? Are you committed to monogamy or are you comfortable with them seeing other people?
Having open and regular discussions about the status and direction of your relationship is necessary if you want to survive this time apart.
Communicate, communicate, communicate!
Communication is key for every couple. However, it’s the cornerstone of a long distance relationship. Without constant and clear communication, navigating a romance while far apart can become stressful.
One of the most common mistakes long distance couples make is that they neglect to share details about their independent lives with each other.
They feel that doing so is unnecessary because their partner doesn’t know the people or places involved. However, the reality couldn’t be farther from the truth.
Actively communicating with your partner means making an effort to include them in your world, even if they’re physically far away from it.
Our advice? Avoid being vague. Take the time and effort to share your life with them.
Tell them about your lunch plans, the podcast you’re listening to, what you see on your morning commute. Sharing details like these will help keep your bond strong.
Schedule regular dates
Technology is your best friend when it comes to dating in a long distance relationship. So use it to your advantage and schedule regular date nights with your significant other.
Making an effort to have regular and creative dates will keep the spark alive. It’ll also give you something to look forward to if you’re unable to visit each other for a long time.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, there are more virtual date activities available than ever before. Whether you and your partner are into online cooking classes or a recorded concerts, there’s something out there for every couple. So choose one that suits you and enjoy.
Prioritize intimacy
Intimacy is important in every relationship and it looks different to every couple.
If you feel nervous about instigating intimacy with your far-away partner, don’t worry. Simply have an open and trusted discussion with them about your expectations and boundaries.
From late-night video calls to thoughtful texts and love letters, there are many ways for you two to keep your romance thriving. So get creative!
Have fun planning your IRL time
Having something exciting to look forward to is vital in a long distance relationship, and what’s more exciting than reuniting with your other half?
Why not make a reservation for you and your partner to stay in a fancy hotel? Or plan to take your other half on a tour of your city?
The time you and your long distance partner get to spend together will always feel special, but by putting in an extra effort you can make it even more so.
Have an endgame
The hardest part of being in a long distance relationship is the fear that you’ll be in one forever. So, nip this worry in the bud by having an end date in sight from the beginning.
While it doesn’t have to be concrete, having an end date will give you and your partner something to look forward to. This is helpful, particularly when times are rough.
Whether your endgame means one of you moving to the other’s city or both of you moving to a new location together, having a goal to work towards is key.
Distance doesn’t have to signal the end to your relationship, it just means that your connection has to change a little.
So if you and your partner are facing some extended time apart, simply prioritize the advice on this list and remain hopeful.
Who knows, maybe weathering this storm together will bring your hearts closer than ever before. Good luck!
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About the author: Brianne Hogan
Brianne is a Canadian freelance writer who's been writing about dating and relationships longer than any of her relationships. She applies a "do what I say, not do what I do" approach to her articles, and believes you can find Your Person mostly when you aren't looking. So enjoy your life, and eat lots of cheese (at least that's her motto). Her byline's been featured on Thrillist, The Huffington Post, HelloGiggles, Elle Canada, Flare, Awesomeness TV, among others.