Usually, when people hear about me being involved in a long-distance relationship, the first thing they have to say is always: "must be really hard." Well, yeah, it is not as easy, but nothing truly worth having is easy, right?
You don't have an opportunity to see your partner at any moment as all the casual couples do, you lack the face-to-face connection and thus experience misunderstandings more often, indeed. Nevertheless, you still can make it work, and I will try to help you out based on my own experience.
I have had two long-distance relationships: the one that did not work out and epically failed after 2 months (on a 10,000 kilometers distance), and the one that I am happily in right now, 11,000 kilometers away from each other.
Surely, the most important thing (I would say it propels any relationship) is trust. If you are committed to any kind of a relationship, you have to trust your partner. (I could also write a long paragraph about being a good partner yourself, staying loyal to your other half, but I believe it's obvious and hopefully you are smart enough to realize this.) In a long-distance relationship, the topic of trust is even more touchy as you do not see the other person and thus you are not aware of who the other person is with and what he or she may be doing. Ouch, that's kind of troubling, huh?
Your deal is to give your trust. Theirs - is what they do with it. If your beloved one truly values you and your relationship - he or she will stay loyal. Otherwise, that person does not deserve you.
There will always be some jealousy, which is healthy. Sometimes jealousy might be a cute little thing, like the one about which Nick Jonas had a song, but severe jealousy makes your partner think you do not trust him/her. Do not let the latter happen. As they say; "trust, but check you must."
Another annoying aspect that can potentially put your relationship in danger is miscommunication. You have to be more clear and direct here, compared to if you were in a "regular" relationship. For example, some words can be misunderstood as text messages do not convey your intonation. Therefore, the reaction of your partner might not be the same as you intended. Say more about how you feel and try to resolve any conflict as quick as possible. Compromise. Usually, a hug or a kiss can put an end to any argument, but words are all you have when you choose to go long distance. Use words wisely.
Nowadays, technologies allow you to connect with your loved ones at any distance at any time. Skype video calls, WhatsApp free calls, and just social networks overall will help you out to stay close to each other and share all your latest news. I would suggest making a schedule the days when to video chat and arrange them as dates! Keep it interesting!
You can still perform some tasks together, for example, decide on a movie to watch on each other's own, and then discuss it over a call. Another option would be to choose a book and set up a "deadline" for each chapter that each one has to finish in time, and then discuss it, too. Grow together.
Make plans together. Anticipate the moment when you will see each other, decide on what you will do when you meet. It does not necessarily mean you will have to stick with that plan. I bet it will all flow naturally.
Support each other. Be positive. It works if you both make it work. In the end, when you finally will be able to stare into your favorite eyes and feel the most precious arms around you, all the waiting is worth it! And then, appreciate every second...
