LONG DISTANCE RELATIONSHIPS - TIPS TO MAKE IT WORK

As much as long distance relationships can be significantly challenging and frustrating, one out of four LDRs actually work. It takes dedication, trust and commitment from both parties to succeed. Here are my top eight tips:

COMMUNICATION

It cannot be overemphasized how important communication is in any form of relationship whether work, friendships, marriages, families, etc.

Clearly stating communication needs and expectations (eg, morning texts and lunch calls), and having an honest discussion on which ones are realistically doable is the bedrock to further build a relationship. If an agreement cannot be reached here, then the whole relationship is pointless.

Keep your partner updated on significant life events as and when it occurs, whilst showing concern for important milestones in your partner's life as well. 

TRUST

As much as possible maintain an honest, open and undiluted level of trust between you both, leaving no room for doubt at any point. Of course, misunderstandings will crop up, but the explanations you present must not leave room for unanswered questions or loopholes.

COUNTDOWN TO THE NEXT VISIT

Setting a realistic date for your next visit presents a form of anticipation to work towards, rather than just merely working towards an endless vacuum or mirage. 

Undoubtedly, unforeseen circumstances might come up as time goes on, but if both parties had been working around this date, it will be accepted (of course with disappointment) as an honest blip rather than a sabotage from a particular party. 

SPEND TIME DOING NORMAL STUFFS TOGETHER

When a "time together" becomes eminent, it is tempting to go on a vacation to a nice resort or townhouse to take a break from the world. But staying together in the natural habitat with reduced hours of work, doing stuffs such as laundry, cooking and cleaning together, as well as lazy weekends in bed, breaks barriers and gives an insight into your partner's natural environment. Not to mention the cost involved in taking vacations and sipping cocktails.

MAINTAIN A GOOD SOCIAL LIFE

When the "time together" is over, spend time hanging out with friends and family and enjoying an active social life. Staying home feeling sorry for yourself and moping about the absence of loved one will not make you a better lover or person but bitter, sad and lonely.

READ OR WATCH SOMETHING TOGETHER

Find great pieces of articles or novels you both find fascinating and share a read; or a great movie perhaps, if you are not enthusiasts of reading. This offers a good base to stimulate your minds and an easy conversation starter to keep you both off the usual "so what did you eat" kinda conversations.

HIS/HER FRIENDS SHOULD BE YOURS TOO

Make friends with his/her friends and forge some form of relationship to give you a better sense of your partner's life with regards to who he/she hangs out with, as well as a feeling of overall inclusion. This can extend to family members if you both have taken your relationship to the next level. 

RANDOM CHECK-INS

As much as it is important to communicate needs and expectations, do not suffocate yourselves with streamlined "good night video or audio calls or messages". 

Random "Hey Babe, I Miss You" messages or "I just realized we never finished that argument about women owning homes" texts are guaranteed to bring a smile to your partner's face which will be hugely appreciated if they are having a tough day.

Some Long Distance Relationships Do Work, And Yours Could Be One of Them! Thank Me Later!!