5 tips for surviving a long distance relationship

Does distance really make the heart grow fonder? The answer isn’t so straightforward. For some, living a few too many tube stops from their partner can be a deal-breaker, while other couples manage to thrive on opposite sides of the world.

Suffice it to say the relationship needs to be in a good place to begin with. Adding the pressure of long distance to an already shaky foundation is a sure-fire route to relationship collapse. But the good news is that once that foundation is built up and stable, a long-distance relationship can indeed work. Here’s how…

It’s so important to maintain connection in a long-distance relationship, and this means more than just a goodnight text. Schedule regular phone calls or video calls to make up for that lack of in-person contact and support you would both otherwise be feeling. No matter how busy you are with work or your social life, it pays to prioritise these small moments of connection.

Sleepless in Seattle

Trust is essential in any relationship, but especially a long distance one. Separate continents and a 12-hour time difference are tricky enough constraints on a relationship, without the addition of fear or jealousy. Refrain from jumping to conclusions – so they’ve posted a picture with a new ‘friend’? Trust that it’s just that. They didn’t pick up your call? Trust that they’ll call you back shortly.

Whether you’re meeting halfway for a holiday, planning a romantic date night for your next visit, or even just knowing when you’ll next see each other, having something for you to both look forward to is essential in abating feelings of longing or frustration.

Going the Distance

Sex is important in any relationship, even long distance ones. Sexting isn't just for horny twenty-somethings – it's a great way to keep the desire alive at any age. Find a time that works for you both and schedule it in, or embrace the spontaneity when you’re both in the mood.

Whatever your reason for being apart, it can’t be forever. For everyone’s sanity, there needs to be some kind of end date in mind. This doesn’t necessarily need to be a literal date: even a virtual agreement – that say, after a year of long distance you’ll discuss moving back to the same place – can be a massive weight off.

Survived long distance? Here's what to know before you propose...

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