How to Begin a Long Distance Relationship

You can begin a long distance relationship with someone from your past, or with a friend you have just met online. When you begin a long distance relationship, you can build the foundation for a long-lasting friendship or a love relationship. Beginning a long distance relationship takes time and patience, and also a healthy dose of caution.

Things You'll Need

• An open mind
• A cell phone plan with free long distance
• Internet access

Instructions

1. Acknowledge the challenges of a long distance relationship before you begin one. Ask yourself if you are a trusting enough person to have a long distance relationship with someone. Also ask yourself if you are ready to develop an emotional connection with someone, that will not be based on chemical attraction.

2. Make yourself a list of what you expect before you begin a long distance relationship. Are you looking for an online flirting friend? Do you need someone to talk to during lonely times? Do you seek a real commitment from someone? It's important to ask yourself if you can be faithful before you begin a long distance relationship.

3. Start by thinking about people from your past with whom you may have had a connection. The person could be someone you knew back in middle school or high school. Or maybe there was a former co-worker or friend of a friend who you always liked. Is there someone from your past who liked you but the timing was never right? Contact any of the these people who you know first. Use online web sites and email to re-establish a connection. Send out a "Remember me?" email that is friendly and upbeat, to see who may be available. If you have exhausted these options, skip to Step 5.

4. Develop an online friendship with the person from your past. Exchange emails, use instant messaging to communicate. As your friendship progresses, start flirting if it is appropriate. Feel out the waters to see if there is potential for an emotional connection with this person. Let the relationship progress naturally, and move to using the phone on occasion.

5. Establish an online presence at various dating sites or social networks, if you are willing to try to meet someone new online to begin a long distance relationship. Approach everyone with caution when online. Start by establishing a friendship and build from there.

Tips & Warnings

• Building a solid foundation of friendship is the cornerstone of a long distance relationship.

• Let a long distance relationship build slowly and naturally.

• Ignore anyone who tries to rush into an online sexual relationship too early.