Long distance relationships can be exciting at first.
“But then reality sets in, and you’re faced with the harsh truth that your S.O is far away.”
Sound familiar?
When one of my friends started her long distance relationship, she was the same way. She asked me, “How do people make these work?”
Ever since then, I’ve found ways to make long distance relationships successful. They absolutely can work—you just need more effort, trust, and communication than typical relationships.
If you and your special someone are having trouble staying connected, or are just beginning a long distance relationship, here are 13 tips to make your long distance relationship work.
1. Honest Communication is Crucial
Avoid letting small arguments turn into big ones by having honest conversations frequently.
- Share how you’re feeling, what’s bothering you, and your expectations.
- Don’t hold back just because you’re afraid of “ruining the mood.”
- Whether it’s daily phone calls or weekly FaceTimes, make time to really talk.
When you and your partner are honest with each other, you build trust and a stronger understanding of each other.
Read also: 35 Ways to Keep a Conversation Going
2. Set Expectations
Just because you’re apart doesn’t mean you can’t know what your partner expects.
- How often will you two be talking?
- What are your boundaries regarding new friends and social activities?
- Where do you both see this relationship going?
Setting guidelines and expectations can help reduce unnecessary stress and anxiety. You both should feel comfortable and secure in your relationship.
Read also: 12 Long Distance Relationship Psychology Tips
3. Plan Your Visits Far in Advance
I don’t care if you can only see each other once every three months.
If you plan your trips months in advance, you will always have something to look forward to.
Use that time to your advantage and create memories that will build your emotional and physical intimacy when you’re apart.
4. Use Technology to Your Advantage
Virtual connections are your best friend in a long distance relationship.
- FaceTime allows for more personable conversations.
- Send voice notes or texts frequently.
- Share photos, memes, music, or playlists randomly.
Get creative when showing your partner you love them from a distance.
5. Maintain Your Own Independence
Just because you’re seeing someone doesn’t mean you shouldn’t focus on yourself.
- Continue working toward personal goals.
- Keep up with hobbies.
- Encourage your partner to do the same.
Building independence in a long distance relationship makes it stronger. You become happy with yourself instead of relying solely on your S.O. for happiness.
Read also: 13 Ways to Value Yourself in a Relationship
6. Be Upfront About Your Feelings
Trust me, I know it can be awkward.
- If you’re feeling lonely, insecure, annoyed, or anxious, tell your partner.
- Instead of bottling up your emotions, share the struggle of being apart.
- Be patient with your partner if they have trouble articulating their feelings.
By being vocal, you’ll continue to build emotional intimacy with each other.
7. Don’t Forget to Celebrate Special Occasions
Whether it’s birthdays, anniversaries, or even small milestones, take the time to celebrate.
- Surprise your partner with gifts, handwritten letters, or sweet messages.
- Celebrate achievements together over video chats.
- Remember to acknowledge these moments, even the small ones.
Celebrating together keeps your relationship fun, loving, and worthwhile.
8. Play Games or Watch Movies Together
Fun shared activities help you feel connected.
- Watch a movie simultaneously while video chatting.
- Play games online together.
- Read the same book or listen to the same playlist.
Doing activities like these allows you to feel closer than just calling.
9. Trust Your Partner
Long distance relationships cannot work without trust.
- Give your partner space and don’t let jealousy take over without reason.
- Don’t jump to conclusions—talk through anything that comes up.
- Build each other up by fostering confidence in your relationship.
Trust is a key part of staying emotionally connected.
10. Send Surprise Texts or Gifts
Little surprises mean a lot.
- Tell your partner you miss them randomly.
- Send cute voice notes or short videos.
- Mail letters, flowers, or small gifts.
Your partner will appreciate the effort you put into keeping your relationship sweet and thoughtful.
11. Stay Positive
Yes, long distance relationships are challenging.
But instead of focusing on negatives, focus on the positives:
- Remember why you two became a couple.
- Being apart allows you both to grow individually.
- Make every moment you spend together special.
Staying positive fosters a healthy mindset in your relationship.
12. Talk About the Future
You should discuss how you’ll eventually close the distance.
- Will you live in the same city eventually?
- Talk about short-term and long-term goals together.
- Make sure you both want the same outcome.
Having a shared future provides motivation to work toward your goals.
13. Practice Patience
Distance can test your patience, but it’s essential.
- Nothing worth having comes easy—your separation won’t last forever.
- Allow your partner time to cool off if something is troubling them.
- Be kind to yourself and others.
Patience allows love to happen naturally and grow stronger.
Long distance relationships are difficult, but they’re possible if both people truly care for each other. Couples must focus on building trust, communication, creativity, and emotional support.
Always stay honest with your partner, maintain independence, and celebrate your love no matter how far apart you are.
FAQ
Will my long distance relationship work?
Yes. Long distance relationships can work if you and your partner build trust, communicate, and make each other feel special.
How often should I talk to my S.O?
There’s no right or wrong answer. Consistency matters more than frequency—whether through text, calls, or video chats, staying connected is key.
What if I get jealous?
Communicate openly and work on building trust. Don’t jump to conclusions without proof.
How can I make my long distance relationship stronger?
Do activities together, send surprises, and communicate emotionally. These steps strengthen your connection.
When should we talk about closing the distance?
Discuss this early. Both partners should know how long you’ll be apart and your plans to eventually be in the same location.
Save the pin for later
