One of the most asked questions that LDR couples get from other people in long distance relationships is ‘how do you make an LDR work?’ Well, to answer that question,
Here is some long distance relationship advice and our top 10 tips to keep your relationship going:
1. Learn to trust each other
This is one of the most important pieces of advice we can give you. If you don’t trust your partner, then the relationship is bound to fail (sorry, not sorry!) If there’s no trust, you’ll drive yourself crazy – if your partner goes out with their friends, or doesn’t respond to your text within an hour, you’ll overthink and it’ll start an unnecessary fight. So, build up each others trust!
2. Communicate, but don’t overdo it
Communication is KEY – as we always stress, daily contact is essential. Everyday, talk about how your day was, and any updates in your life. This makes you feel more connected with your partner. However, don’t over-communicate… If you’re talking 24/7, chances are you’ll run out of things to talk about.
3. Set some rules
If there’s something you’re not comfortable with your partner doing, you need to talk about it. For example, if you don’t like your partner going clubbing every weekend because it makes you uneasy, or if you don’t like your partner talking to a certain person, tell them! If your partner doesn’t know what makes you uncomfortable, then you can’t be angry at them for doing it. Talk it out! Regardless of the situation, they’ll take your feelings into account and you guys can work out some ground rules.
4. Watch the same TV show or movie
Pick a show to watch together, so you can have something fun to talk about. Either play it at the same time on Netflix, or watch the episodes / movie in your own time. If you’re both watching the same thing, you’ll have more common topics to discuss! Plus, you’ll be able to rant about that one annoying character.
5. Be honest and open with each other
When it comes to being honest, that’s just self explanatory… But, when it comes to being open with each other, we highly suggest talking about your finances. Now, you don’t have to say “Hi, my name is X and I have X amount of money in my bank account.” No, that’s not what we mean! Let your partner know how much you can afford. Can you afford to travel to see them every month, every 3 months, or only once a year? What exactly is your budget? Figure it out so you can work together to come up with a plan to keep your relationship healthy and stress-free.
6. Visit each other
Try to break the distance by visiting one another. We understand that this is much easier said than done, but if you save up your money, and schedule your trip during the right time, then it can 100% be done! This is vital for your relationship. Seeing your partner in person is one of the best feelings in the world!
7. Send each other gifts or letters
By sending things to your partner, it keeps things interesting and exciting. It’s also a special way to show your affection towards your partner. It doesn’t have to be something crazy expensive, it could literally be just a hand written letter with a splash of your perfume on it. Plus, it gives your partner something to look forward to. (Click here to check out our blog on cute gift ideas!)
8. Discuss your future
Where do you both want to live in the future? How many kids do you want? Is marriage something you want? These are all important questions to discuss with your partner so you’re both on the same page. It wouldn’t be ideal to be dating for 7 years then find out that your partner is certain that they want to stay in their country and you want to stay in yours. Plan ahead!
9. Videochat
Videochatting is a great way to feel close to your boyfriend/girlfriend. You’ll be able to virtually see them and it’s much more personal than texting.
10. Stay busy
Don’t mope around your bedroom listening to sad music… If you do that, you’re guaranteed to feel negative. Always think positive thoughts! Keep yourself busy – start a new hobby, hang out with friends and family, or learn an instrument. There’s always something to do to keep yourself occupied. Time will go by faster, too!
You guys got this! Have faith that you can work through the long distance. One day, the distance will close and the plane ticket will be one way.
Hopefully our long distance relationship advice can help you out figure out how to make an LDR work, and make you feel more secure in starting / continuing a long distance relationship.
Let us know what your top long distance relationship advice is!