Thriving in Your Long-Distance Relationship

Long-distance relationships have a bad wrap. Yes, they are difficult at times, but they're definitely not impossible. Not only is it possible to survive a long-distance relationship, it's possible to thrive in one. Here are some tips to make your relationship work for the both of you.

Establish Your Needs

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When you're in a long-distance relationship, your needs might change and it's important to address those. Communicate with your partner about how often you'll talk on the phone or text each other. Communicate how often you want to see each other and what your expectations are when you're reunited. Setting these ground rules will avoid any potential disappointments or arguments while you're separated and make your time together sweet and easy.

Don't Lose Yourself

Just because you're separated from your significant other does not mean your life is on pause. Don't stop doing the things you love, even if they were activities you did together. If you loved to go hiking together or liked to watch foreign films, keep doing those things while you're apart. Socialize with your friends and family, as they will be your best support group when things get hard. Invite one of your loved ones to go hiking or watch a film with you until you and your significant other are together again.

Get Good at Planning

Start with the simple things. Plan when you'll talk to each other on the phone everyday. I know it sounds unnecessary, but when you get busy, it's easy to skip phone conversations if they're not scheduled. Next, plan when you'll visit each other while you're apart. If your schedules permit, alternate who visits who. If that doesn't work, split the cost of travel to lighten the burden on both of you. Finally, have a plan for when your long-distance time period will end. Visualizing a potential end date will help soothe the heart on those tough days.

Treat Technology Like Your Friend

Technology is making long-distance relationships easier and more manageable. Choose a date night and enjoy each other's company virtually. Cook a nice meal or order take-out, dress up a little, pour yourself a drink and have a date through FaceTime on your iPhone. You can even watch your favorite TV show or movie simultaneously to make it feel like you are in the same room with your partner. Smartphone and tablet apps like "Simply Us"target="_blank" give you and your partner a platform to organize and share your lives together. Share a joint calendar with your date night and next scheduled visit, to-do lists, photos and messages all in one place.

Take Advantage of Your Time Apart

It might seem impossible during the times when all you can think about is when you'll be with your significant other again, but time apart isn't always a bad thing. Distance is a great opportunity to learn more about yourself or to try something new. Since you'll be talking on the phone more, it's also an opportunity for you and your significant other to get to know each other better. Being apart gives you the chance to really miss your partner, so nothing will taste sweeter than being with your partner after a long time apart.

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