How to Survive (and Thrive!) in a Long Distance Relationship

A Long Distance Relationship (LDR) can be a challenging experience for any couple. With military deployment, occupational travel, and long distance dating, there are growing changes that two people may be in such a relationship. Here are a few tips on how to survive and thrive in an LDR.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Two people
• Patience
• Distance
• Time
• Love
• E-mail, phone, or snail mail

1. Communicate honestly and clearly. In any relationship, being straightforward is very important. Make sure that you are able to communicate with your partner openly about your feelings about any matter--relationshipy or otherwise.

2. Communicate regularly. When you don't see someone everyday, it can be easy to lapse into the habit of just talking when something major happens. Make sure to set aside time to talk to each other on the phone at least a couple times a week. Schedule the time if you have to.

3. Communicate about the little things. If you cannot talk to you partner everyday, keep a small journal of what is going on in your life--include your feelings, thoughts, reactions and conclusions. This will keep you both on the same page regarding those small matters of daily life.

4. Communicate lovingly. LDRs can bring frustrating for both people at times. Be patient with one another and communicate with affection and tact as well as honestly.

5. Don't just communicate, do things! Read the same book, pray together, go on a "date," watch the the same TV show or movie and discuss it afterwords. Be creative!

Tips & Warnings

• Don't become obsessed with the relationship and read into every detail. Communicate regularly with friends and maintain your other relationships.
• At the same time, nuture your relationship.
• An LDR is not for everyone. They can be easy for some and very difficult for others. If you find an LDR is adversely affecting your health, make sure to communicate this with your partner, it is not good for either of you to get sick over it. If you must leave an LDR, do so with care and tact.

[jamiekucharski]

on 4/8/2009 I enjoyed this piece about how to make long-distance relationships work. A high 5* and a rec!

[elyria]

on 3/22/2009 Great article and excellent topic! 5* and gave you a recommendation!

[sonni57]

on 3/8/2009 A long distance relationship is usually difficult to handle. Good info to take into consideration.

[rjspindle]

on 3/4/2009 My best friend is doing this successfully, and I have in the past. Honestly, sometimes I think long distance at the beginning of a relationship can make it better in the long run. 5* and recommend.

[williamfjordan]

on 2/26/2009 thouvhtful article ... 5* plus a recommendation