Long distance relationships can be an absolute ballache. They can be hard. They can be confusing. However, that's not to say that they aren't do-able and, at times, really quite enjoyable! As someone who has been in a 'long' distance relationship on two separate occasions, I thought I would chime in and share some tips on how to make a long distance relationship work.
communicate
We are lucky enough to live in a digital age that makes communication a hell of a lot easier. Apps such as Facetime, Skype and Whatsapp mean that we are able to communicately more intimately than ever before, no matter how far away we may be from one another. When my partner and I were first 'long distance', I use inverted commas as we were only 2 hours away from one another but we didn't see each other very often, we used Skype as some of the more advanced apps didn't actually exist. I wouldn't necessarily recommend Skype, as it's quite unreliable. Instead, I would suggest you use Whatsapp and Facetime. They're mobile, instant and allow you to chat away with ease. Phone one another, send texts, send letters, send photographs, mail postcards, whatever, just be vocal!
be honest
Honesty is a pretty important part of any healthy relationship but it's magnified during LDR's. Don't feel like you have to bottle things up, be honest with one another, whether you're happy or sad. Speak to one another openly about your relationship, if you would like to. My partner and I found it hugely important to just sit down and have open discussions about where we were headed and how we felt every so often and I cannot recommend it enough. Secondly, be honest with yourself! Why do you feel the way that you do? How could you work on those feelings? Talk it out!
be trusting
Distant relationships also rely on trust. If either of you have your doubts, it's going to make for some pretty awkward situations and unnecessary arguments. To avoid this, again, make sure you both know where you stand. I guarantee you'll feel a lot more comfortable.
plan ahead
Planning ahead can really take your mind off things. Give your mind something to think about or plan, whether it's a day out together or a holiday or a time when you will no longer have to be long distance. We found that by planning a holiday and our flat, we were able to start new dialogues and get excited. It makes the time fly by! It'll also ensure that everything runs smoothly too because you have planned everything meticulously for months.
live a full life
It's so incredibly easy to put plans off with others when you're long distance but, as I came to realise, it's actually really damaging. You need to make sure you maintain a balance within your own individual lives. Don't feel like you have to constantly be there for your partner. Go out and see friends and indulge in a bit of 'me' time.
