How I made my long distance relationship even stronger 💪

“It must be hard being so far from the person you love,” a party guest told me after seeing me step away for a brief video call.

They couldn't have been more right — it had been two long months since I last saw my boyfriend.

Here's the good news, though! With advanced technology and resources, long-distance relationships (LDRs) don't always have to feel so difficult.

So, what are the tips and tricks for managing a happy LDR?

We often hear that it’s important to communicate, and this is especially true for an LDR if you want it to succeed. So what exactly does effective communication look like in an LDR? 

Be transparent.

Be clear when you’re busy with class, work, or other obligations — and also be clear when there have been changes to your schedule, too! 

This helps manage expectations when it comes to planning time for each other.

Make time for each other.

Be intentional in setting time aside for each other, and how you’d want to spend time together

The key here is establishing a solid middle ground where you and your partner feel seen and heard. 

Check in regularly.

Check in with each other’s feelings, headspace, and where both of you are at emotionally and mentally. Not sure where to start? Here's a list of questions for you and your partner to try!

Be openly affectionate!

Let your partner know you’re thinking about them, and don’t hesitate to share life updates with them. Sending a funny Instagram reel or sharing a photo you took can help keep the romance alive.

It's crunch time at work. You and your partner have gotten really busy trying to finish up on deadlines, and it's affecting your communication. You’re worried, as you had plans to visit their country soon. You wonder if your relationship is in danger. What should you do?

A. Message your partner to find a good time for a conversation.

B. Suddenly withdraw from your partner to process your thoughts.

C. Wait for your partner to initiate the conversation.

D. Gently express to your partner how much you miss them.

So the question to ask is this: who hasn't faced LDR anxiety, really? No judgment here, it hits you when you least expect it to.

It shouldn't come as a surprise though, as anxiety and stress can affect you greatly when you're missing your partner, even in a secure LDR.

The great news is that there are strategies for when the worries and nerves hit! So what can we do?

• Allocate me-time for your hobbies and interests.

• Spend time with friends and loved ones.

• Journal your thoughts and feelings.

• Practice reflection and mindfulness activities to help address stress and anxiety.

Now let’s state the obvious: distance limits the activities a couple could do. That doesn't mean your options have to be dull!

So how can you make virtual dating exciting?

• Send snail mail and love packages.

• Share your interests and hobbies.

• Teach each other’s cultures and language if you are in an intercultural relationship.

• Create a music playlist or write a to-watch TV series and film list.

• Play online and video games, quizzes.

• Have a virtual dinner date.

• Video call your partner and show them around your city (with good connectivity)!

You can do it!

Being in an LDR is no easy feat, but the memories you create and the lessons you learn together can be rewarding and irreplaceable.

Try these tips to make your LDR romance more exciting!