7 Tips On How To Have A Successful Long Distance Relationship
If you check the statistics on long distance relationship, it is actually encouraging. Some studies even say there are some benefits to putting a little distance between a couple. Distance should not matter if you are in love. Research shows that during the initial phase of infatuation, if a couple stays apart for a significant amount of time, the surge in emotions is likely to stay longer.
When you have found someone you absolutely adore, would you let the opportunity pass by just because of the long distance between the two of you? Of course, not. That would not be the right decision. Instead, let’s invest some time in finding a few solid long distance relationship tips and how to make them successful. It is quite possible to have a healthy and happy relationship even if two people stay apart.
There are so many advantages of a long-distance relationship; for instance:
- Couples tend to spend more time talking.
- There’s a higher level of dedication and commitment.
- Studies show that long-distance couples feel comparatively less ‘trapped’ in the relationship than ones who are geographically closer.
- Better emotional bond.
- Long-distance couples grow a better understanding of each other.
- Statistically, couples living apart are more excited to see each other.
Do you see a long-distance relationship does not have to look bleak? The outcome can be something beautiful and worthwhile.
Yes, love knows no bounds, but still, it requires a lot of work. First and foremost, you have to take conscious steps to ensure that you and your partner feel connected. Emotional connection is pivotal in a long distance relationship precisely because the physical proximity part is not in the scheme of things. Did you know that more than 39% of couples are, or at some point in time, have been in a long distance relationship? Now the question that begs an immediate answer is, “how did they make it successful?
We have curated a list of tips for long-distance relationships:
No. 1: Promise An End Date
Yes, distance makes the heart grow fonder, but it can very well make the heart wander off after a set amount of time. So, before we head into tips that will keep your relationship going glitch-free for a finite amount of time, our first advice would be to set an end date. It would be somewhat similar to a promise to one another that this distance will end soon; till then, please hold tight.
While there is an additional layer of commitment in a long-distance relationship, it can get tricky to maintain it after a while. It is essential to have an end goal in sight so that it keeps you going.
Be on the same page as your partner as to when this ends, and a new chapter begins. For instance, if your partner thinks the distance will be short-lived, maybe a year tops, but the reality is that you have to stay apart for much longer than just a year, it will eventually cause trouble in paradise. It is always better to talk it out at the initial stages of the relationship to avoid miscommunication and accusations.
No. 2: Call Them.
Technology is your best friend when you are in a long-distance relationship. Since physical proximity is out of the equation most of the time, it is pivotal to stay connected with your partner in every other way possible. One of the most effective long distance relationship ideas is to call your partner every single day; don’t forget video calls. It is a far better option than texting because a lot gets lost in texts when you don’t understand the tone of a conversation.
Make sure that every day you take out the time to have an in-depth conversation. It can be about how your day went, problems you have been facing in the relationships, insecurities, or even gossiping. The key is to grow enough emotional connection to make up for the missing physical one.
No. 3: Avoid Too Much Communication
It sounds somewhat contradicting to the previous tip. But hold up; we can explain. While regular and in-depth communication is vital, it is also crucial that you don’t come off as too sticky and over-possessive. For instance, you are calling your partner once in the morning and once again at night, and throughout the day, you try to text them three to four times. That’s perfect. But do you know there are couples who, apparently, can’t keep the phone down? They talk all night long and then continue texting throughout the day, sharing every minute detail of their day apart. Statistics show that such couples are likely to get into ugly fights owing to over-sharing and end up breaking up.
Yes, you are trying your best to even up for the distance but don’t overcompensate. You will only exhaust yourself and your feelings for one another. A small gap before speaking to each other again will tug the strings of your hearts the right amount.
No. 4: Set Ground Rules
Long-distance relationships come with their fair share of troubles. For starters, if you don’t manage your expectations, you might end up with a broken heart. The best way out of this is to set some clear ground rules and boundaries. For instance, while you meet every expectation and wish of your partner, do it only when it’s within reason. Let’s say your partner wants you to stop talking to some of your friends, would you? Some demands are just unreasonable, and you should make it clear from the very beginning that you do not appreciate them.
Some essential things to discuss:
- Discuss what commitment means to your partner.
- Discuss what you expect from each other.
- Discuss what is cheating. The idea can differ from person to person.
- Discuss the things you might accept and the absolutely non-negotiable things.
- Infidelity is unacceptable.
Most long-distance relationships suffer due to a lack of trust and a sheer case of miscommunication. If you have some ground rules and discuss the critical things beforehand, the chances of breaking each other’s hearts can be reduced considerably.
No. 5: Have Shared Goals For The Future
Studies show that couples who share common goals for the future are likely to stay together longer. Set at least three to five significant future goals, and work together toward achieving them. It helps couples forget trivial conflicts and focus on the bigger picture. It is pivotal to be on the same page. For instance, your end goal may be getting married in the next three years, whereas your partner is not even thinking of it. It might cause a conflict. Even if you are living apart, it is essential for your relationship that you work together towards similar goals.
Some goals that you can work for:
- The end of the distance
- Next steps like marriage, adopting a pet, buying a house, and more.
No. 6: Surprise Visits
Routine is a necessary part of any long-distance relationship, but surprises can help you take your relationship up a notch. Of course, you should plan regular visits and have a schedule for phone calls, but once in a while, try and ditch the timetable and stun your sweetheart by showing up at their front door. Don’t forget to get flowers.
No. 7: Get Romantic, Even If It Is On Calls
So you can’t meet BAE in person? You can always get romantic over video calls and texts. Studies show that couples that take out time for romance, even when it’s virtual, stay together longer as compared to couples who don’t. You don’t have to do anything you don’t feel comfortable with; romance is more about building a better emotional connection and can mean a variety of things. It might be sexting to some couples, whereas to others, it can simply mean taking a moment to appreciate everything they are doing for one another.
Read : How To Fix A Relationship After A Huge Fight
Final Thoughts
Love is much beyond our control, and the same goes for falling out of love. It can happen anytime and to anyone, regardless of distance or no distance. But that does not mean we won’t put in the effort to make it work. Even if you are halfway across the globe, love can very well prevail and best over every bump that comes along the way. It might just need a little help from you. These tips for long distance relationships that we have prepared for you should be enough to sail through your relationship smoothly, or even when the waves hit, you will be able to face it head-on.
