How To Keep a Long Distance Relationship Alive

Staying Connected while Dating Despite the Distance

© Kayda Norman

May 13, 2009
Man on computer, Maggie Smith
Every relationship requires good communication to survive. This is even more important when you are in a long distance relationship.

You have finally met the person of your dreams who you want to start a life with and, naturally, see every day. Unfortunately, he or she may be perfect for you but lives 3,000 miles away. Whether you and your loved one live in different states or even continents, you can strive to make the relationship work with the help of these tips.

Set Aside Time to Talk Every Day

Make sure that you talk to your partner at least once a day. Plan out a time when both of you will be available to talk, whether it is before you set off to work in the morning or right after you eat dinner. Be aware of the time difference to avoid calling each other while the other is sleeping.

Talk about the Little Things

Sure, everyone may know that you are planning to move to New York City in September, but only your close friends and beau know the details of what your new apartment looks like. That's what separates acquaintances from people you have deeper relationships with. Make sure to let your partner know the small things that are going on in your life and not just the major events of the day.

Use Technology to Stay Connected – To a Point

Technology today lets you stay connected virtually wherever you are. Just a few options include e-mailing, instant messaging, Facebook or MySpace messaging, text messaging, and of course, calling someone. While text messaging your girlfriend or boyfriend throughout the day is a good way to stay connected, provided you have a decent cell phone plan, still make sure to connect with them via phone so that you can hear the sound of the other person's voice. Webcams and microphones can also come in handy when in a long distance relationship.

Send Letters and Packages

One of the perks of having a long distance relationship is getting more snail mail. Send each other postcards, love letters, and packages periodically to let the other one know you are thinking of them. Receiving a special package or letter is a good way to make your partner feel special even when you are far away.

Have Your Own Life

You are in a relationship, yet never really get to go on dates or spend time with your significant other. This frees up a lot of time for you to focus on yourself and take up any activities you may not have had time for in the past. Use this as an opportunity to take a dance class, start a new friendship with a co-worker, or read that book you've wanted to peruse all year. Plus, when you finally do see your boyfriend or girlfriend, you can surprise them with your new talent or introduce them to your new best friend.

Final Advice

Long distance relationships while hard, can work out. Remember to keep in touch as much as possible and communicate, communicate, communicate. Try to talk about both the big and little things going on in your life, and keep busy to make time go by faster. With any luck, you will be back together with your loved one before you realize they were gone.


The copyright of the article How To Keep a Long Distance Relationship Alive in Dating Advice is owned by Kayda Norman. Permission to republish How To Keep a Long Distance Relationship Alive in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


Man on computer, Maggie Smith
       


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