10 tips for a successful long-distance relationship
Long-distance relationships require a lot of work as not being able to spend time together can have an impact. However, there are numerous things you can do to have a successful long-distance relationship and form an amazing connection despite not being able to spend as much time together as you might like to.
Here, we share 10 tips for a successful long-distance relationship and how you can make the best out of living apart.
1. Establish communication expectation
One of the foundations of a successful long-distance relationship is clear, open communication. You should discuss how you’ll communicate e.g. by phone, text, video call, and how often. While texting throughout the day can keep you connected and help you feel closer, phone and video calls offer a more intimate communication channel, so agreeing to a mix of these can be the best option. However, it completely depends on what works for you as a couple. The most important thing is that you agree on your communication expectations and are both happy with your decision.
2. Meet up regularly
While excellent communication is vital for a successful long-distance relationship, nothing beats spending time together in person. Regular meetups, whether they’re weekend visits or longer trips, provide opportunities to bond and make memories. Of course, how often you can see each other in person depends on how far apart you live, but ensuring you always have a meetup planned will give you both something to look forward to and will make sure not too much time passes between visits.
3. Make visits memorable
When you do get the opportunity to meet up in person, make your visits memorable so you can make the most of the time you have together. Ensure you’ll have some time where it’s just the two of you, arrange activities you both enjoy, and schedule in your next meetup so you have something to look forward to when you part. Remember that spending time together is the most important thing and not to put too much pressure on what you do during your precious time together.
4. Be honest about your feelings
Honesty is vital in every relationship. However, it can be even more important in long-distance relationships where miscommunications and misunderstandings are more likely due to extended periods apart. If you’re feeling lonely, insecure, or anxious about the relationship, it’s important to share these feelings with your partner so they can provide the support and reassurance you need.
5. Keep yourself busy
A common pitfall of long-distance relationships is the tendency to neglect personal hobbies or social activities. Spending time with others and scheduling things you enjoy into your diary is essential. Taking part in activities that make you happy and fulfilled will not only boost your wellbeing but will ensure you have plenty to talk to your partner about when you next catch up.
Whether it’s joining an exercise class, having a coffee with friends, or focusing on work, having your own passions and goals allows you to grow individually and puts less pressure on your long-distance relationship.
6. Set long-term goals
One of the biggest challenges of a long-distance relationship is the uncertainty about the future. Without a clear plan for eventually moving closer together, it can be difficult to stay motivated. Discuss your long-term goals and set some achievable timelines. For example, talk about where you’d like to live as a couple and plan when you’d like to move in together.
While circumstances can change, committing to your relationship’s future gives you both something to work towards. This ensures the focus of your relationship isn’t surviving the distance but working towards a happy life together.
7. Embrace technology
Technology is really useful when maintaining a long-distance relationship. In addition to regular calls and texts, there are many ways you can use technology to feel connected. Watch movies or TV shows at the same time, share music playlists, or play online games. If you enjoy reading, consider a mini book club where you both read the same book and discuss it once you’ve finished.
8. Build trust
Trust is at the heart of any successful relationship, but it becomes more crucial when you’re apart for long periods of time. Without the ability to see each other regularly and build a close physical connection, it’s easy to feel vulnerable at times. If trust issues arise, communicate honestly about your concerns which will help to make you feel secure and clear up any doubts. Try not to sit on feelings of paranoia or jealously and trust your partner to listen to your concerns and put your mind at ease.
9. Be patient
Patience is key for a successful long-distance relationship. Things won’t always go to plan and unexpected events, like changes in work schedules, time zone differences, or travel delays, can disrupt your communication and mean that visits need to be rescheduled. Ensuring you can both be patient and flexible will help you navigate these issues. Long-distance relationships require resilience, and being adaptable to unexpected circumstances will help keep your relationship strong regardless of the distance.
10. Celebrate milestones
In a long-distance relationship, it’s important to celebrate milestones, no matter how small they are. Whether it’s an anniversary, a personal achievement, or surviving a tough week apart, acknowledging these will add moments of fun and positivity to the relationship and provide a sense of accomplishment. Highlight your relationship milestones by sending a gift, arranging an online date night, or scheduling in a visit to ensure these special moments don’t pass by unnoticed.
Maintaining a successful long-distance relationship takes effort, trust, and commitment. While the physical distance between you and your partner can be difficult, through setting clear expectations, communicating openly, building trust, and maintaining a positive attitude, long-distance relationships can be fantastic.
At Select Personal Introductions, we’ll consider your preferences regarding long-distance relationships when finding your perfect match. Keeping an open mind about this type of relationship can give you the opportunity to meet people with whom you can have an amazing connection.
Contact us today to find out more about our matchmaking service and our membership options.