How Can You Make A Long-Distance Relationship Work?

Navigating a long-distance relationship can be a daunting experience but an opportunity to deepen bonds and also ensure growth. It’s a normal thing to feel optimism and uncertainty as you figure out how you’ll maintain a connection with your significant other when you are separated by distance. Relationships require love and commitment as well as the willingness to work through adversities. Being apart brings challenges that couples need to overcome.

According to a 2013 study from the Journal of Communication, about 3 million Americans live far away from their partners at some point during their marriages.

 Some couples find that distance apart may strengthen a relationship as it encourages a deep understanding of each other as well as contributes to improved communication between couples. There are several ways you and your significant other can nurture your bond regardless of your distance. Here are surefire tips to make your long-distance relationship work:

In a long-distance relationship, you have to find new ways to maintain your connection. You don’t have the option of spontaneity of going out together or going out for a walk with your significant other. You can take advantage of technology by using it for Facetime/video call dates, regular phone calls and voice notes to bridge the gap. As you share your day-to-day life with your significant other, the distance feels smaller.

Trust and patience are significant for this kind of relationship. Trusting your partner and being patient with the cons that come with the distance between the two of you helps strengthen your emotional bond even when you miles apart. Having boundaries in your relationship helps to build respect and trust in the relationship.

The lack of physical presence may compel you to put effort into understanding each other’s needs. It’s more than just talking it involves ensuring that your significant other feels heard and understood. Set ground rules for the time you’ll be in a long-distance relationship. How often will you talk with your significant other? How long without communicating feels right? Being on the same page means you’ll feel less disappointed or hurt if you don’t communicate.

If you are looking to maintain a sense of normalcy and keep both of you involved in one another’s lives you can start and end your day with simple texts or calls. You don’t have to have to engage in a deep emotional conversation. Sharing day-to-day details with your significant other will make both of you involved in each other’s lives and it will help you reduce the feeling of distance.