Life has a funny way of throwing challenges your way, usually at what seems like the worst time.
Example: meeting a really great guy a month before you leave for college. Colleges on opposite sides of the country, that is. It seems daunting, but long-distance relationships really aren't as bad as some people make them out to be.
1. Just as in any relationship, communication is key.
When talking is all you have for the majority of the time, you have to make sure you're using that skill to the fullest. That means honesty, sharing seemingly meaningless details about your days, and expressing frustrations or problems when they occur.
2. Make time for each other.
Figure out the time difference (if you're lucky, there won't be one!) and plan Skype dates. Call each other when you're walking home from class. Wake up earlier if you know the other person needs a little support in the morning before a big exam. Make time to talk to each other just as you would in a non-LDR.
3. It kind of goes without saying, but it won't work without trust.
Any relationship needs it, but especially one that involves being potentially very far apart. If you can't trust the other person, or you're just not willing to try, it's not even worth the hassle.
4. Be able to realize if you're holding the other person back or if you're missing out on things because you're constantly trying to connect with someone who isn't there.
If you're saying no to every invitation and opportunity that comes your way because you have a Skype date, you're going to miss out on a lot of important, fun things that are happening right in front of you rather than on a computer screen.
5. It's not always feasible, but make the effort to visit whenever possible.
Bonus points if you can manage a surprise visit.
6. Find ways to be a part of each other's daily lives even if you're across the country.
Quick phone calls to tell a funny story or vent about a tough professor create the feeling that the person is much closer than they are. Send random flowers or food, packages, or letters.
7. Use it as an opportunity to build your friendship.
There is no better way to get to know someone than only being able to talk to them. Long-distance requires a lot of talking about anything and everything because it completely removes the physical aspects of the relationship. This means that you learn a lot about your significant other — which can either strengthen your friendship or make you change your mind about that person. Hopefully the first option.
8. Remember that the people who say that long-distance never works are the people who had failed long-distance relationships for whatever reasons.
They're the ones who were hurt by long-distance, so they feel the need to warn everyone else about it. There are just as many people who have successfully done long-distance. Plus, every relationship and person is different, so it's impossible to judge what is best for you or what will happen based on anyone else's experiences.
