A Guide to Building Healthy Long Distance Relationships

It’s either you’ve been in a long distance relationship and it failed because it was toxic, or you haven’t been in a long distance relationship and want to know how to make it work.

To be honest, it’s no different from any other relationship. Yes, there is distance as a factor. But all other things that make a relationship work must also be present for an LDR to work. Here are some of the things you need to keep in mind if you want to make your long distance relationship last:

Communicate as much as you need.

Relationship experts will tell you that you should always communicate with your partner, especially if you’re in a long distance relationship. But, sometimes, too much communication can lead to arguments.

This is because every couple has a different dynamic. For example, some couples may find the need to communicate 24/7 to compensate for the distance and time apart. They force conversations when there is nothing to talk about. Later on, the relationship becomes boring because you have nothing to share anymore.

You need to find balance in your communication – the frequency and length of time you talk. This way, you can feel connected without suffocating the relationship.

Give reassurance every now and then.

Doubts, jealousy, and insecurities are common in a long distance relationship. Since you can’t see or communicate in person, you may feel distant from each other and start to make up negative scenarios in your head.

To avoid this, give each other assurances every now and then. You don’t need to go all out in doing this. You can simply show how much you love them by sending them sweet and heartwarming messages or affirmations.

More importantly, if your partner expresses concern about something that makes them insecure in the relationship, don’t take it personally. They’re not starting a fight, but rather seeking your assurance. So, stay calm and tell them what they want to know.

Have trust in each other.

A relationship will not work if the couples in it do not have faith in each other. You can’t spend all your time worrying if your partner is cheating on you. You need to have a deeper level of trust and faith to make your long distance relationship work.

Expect them to have your best interests at heart. Have confidence that both of you will work. Otherwise, what’s the point of being in a relationship?

Learn healthy ways to resolve your issues.

Your time difference and distance are not an excuse to leave issues in the relationship unresolved. If you want to maintain the bond and connection with your partner, learn healthy ways to address your relationship problems.

It’s either you give each other time to think it over or sort out your emotions before talking again, or you don’t let each other get off the phone until you’ve resolved things. It’s a matter of having a plan and sticking to it.

Build a healthier relationship.

All relationships require effort. Much more if it’s a long distance relationship. If you’re ready and willing to put in the needed work, there’s no reason your long distance relationship won’t last. Good luck!

This story was originally published on Medium: A Guide to Building Healthy Long Distance Relationship