Long distance relationships

Long distance relationships are full of challenges, from being unable to observe a person’s facial expressions to lacking the ability to enjoy time together on a regular basis. In fact, the many challenges of long distance love affairs often cause people to avoid even beginning much less trying to maintain such a relationship. Sometimes, though, you and your partner do not have a choice if you wish to be together. Choosing to care for your relationship in proactive and consistent ways can help you and your partner not only to navigate the challenges of long distance love affairs but can help you enjoy a strong, satisfying relationship.

Step 1
Seek to establish meaningful routines in spite of the distance between you and your significant other. Make sure that you communicate regularly and intimately, such as through a phone call to connect at the end of the day, and find other methods as well to support and affirm your relationship in your day-to-day life.

Step 2
Discover ways to increase both you and your romantic partner’s security in the relationship through frequent expressions of love and commitment. Lack of security, whatever the cause, can erode your intimacy and increase distrust and conflict, while practicing and demonstrating commitment to each other can help to strengthen your relationship.

Step 3
Create opportunities to connect and bond romantically and emotionally with one another, such as by watching a favorite movie or a game “together" while connecting over the phone. Gary Smalley, in “Keys to Loving Relationships,” explains that romance is not so much about spending money as about spending time together and deepening your friendship.

Step 4
Choose to nurture in your love every day in both large and small ways. For example, you may compile a “Top 10 Things I Love About You” list and post one item per day on your romantic partner’s Facebook or Twitter page. You could also send a funny card or humorous email to brighten your partner's day.

Step 5
Learn to express affection and love to your dating partner in a way that will be meaningful to her, such as through thoughtful gifts or affirming words. Gary Chapman, in “The Five Love Languages,” explains that when a romantic partner feels loved, then she or he will be much more likely to engage authentically and genuinely in the relationship.

Step 6
Regularly celebrate both your and your romantic partner’s sacrifice for and faithfulness in your relationship. Sometimes, the challenges and difficulties of a relationship can overshadow the successes; make a point to affirm and to celebrate what you both are doing and sacrificing to make the relationship work