People are under the false impression that a long distance relationship is inevitably doomed, but that is not the case. If both partners are equally devoted to making the relationship work then it is very possible to do so – plenty of long distance relationships succeed everyday. If you're worried that your long distance relationship is bound for failure, take a look at these ways to keep it alive.
Establish Boundaries
Sometimes a long distance relationship translates into an open relationship but other times there is still exclusiveness – it's necessary to mutually establish the boundaries of your relationship. Find out what your partner's expectations are and share your own; ultimately, you want to decide how your relationship is going to function. You don't need to map out your future together but you can discuss relocation should the situation arise. With the establishment of boundaries, you should also attempt to establish a mutual trust between the two of you; trust is absolutely necessary in a long distance relationship.
Communicate Everyday
It's not necessary to talk on the phone all day everyday, but it is necessary to have some kind of communication every day. When you're far away from each other you might have increased insecurities and making an effort to communicate on a daily basis might eliminate some of those. You want to make sure that you and your partner feel involved in one another's lives, so it's important to keep each other informed about what's happening. Send each other e-mails or text messages, and try to call one another before bed at night.
See Each Other Without Actually Being There
Although you may not be able to give your partner a kiss every night, technology allows you to see each other. You can text naughty pictures of yourself, or even just a picture of you giving a kissy face. Use computer programs like Skype to see and talk to each other, and at least give the facade of being physically closer. There are also a lot of online messaging services that integrate web cam technology, or at least the use of a microphone. Remember that if you add a little bit of spice into your video sessions then your partner will remember what he or she is missing, and will want more of you!
Have a Life
Even though you wish you could be closer together, you want to make sure that you continue living your life – and allow your partner to continue living theirs. If your partner wants to go out instead of staying in and talking on the phone, try to be understanding. Realize that keeping your partner locked up inside is not going to stop him or her from losing interest (if that is what is going to happen), so don't become that dreaded controlling partner. Likewise, you don't want your partner to think that you have no life outside of the relationship, so go out and enjoy yourself as well. Having innocent fun without your partner is not wrong or dishonest!
Make The Most Of Visits
The one good thing about having a long distance relationship is that your time together becomes sweeter. You know that you only get to hang out once in a while, so build yourself up for those meetings. Try to make plans as often as your schedule and budget permit because a relationship won't thrive forever on phone calls alone. If you're a couple of hours away meeting halfway for dinner one night is always a mid-week option, or planning a surprise visit works too. When you are together, try to spend your time enjoying one another and don't waste your time arguing or being mad!
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