If there is one thing to be said about long-distance relationships, it's that they are far from easy. To me, being in an LDR is like taking an extra class: without time, commitment, and effort, you'll fail. It takes patience, trust, and sometimes a lot more energy than one might expect, but in the long run, it's worth it for so many reasons. Distance can make or break a couple, and it's important to keep the most basic aspects of your relationship strong.
The number one most important thing to establish in a long distance relationship, or any relationship, is clear communication.
Nowadays with texting and iMessage and emojis and all that nonsense, even the simplest things can be misconstrued. It's essential for you and your partner to be on the same page about stuff, especially when you don't have the same views on something or are debating about a topic. Everyone has their own opinions about things, but value and respect your partner's opinions as well.
Give each other space.
It's hard being away from your significant other, and when you're missing them, you might feel like you want to talk to them all day every day. As much as part of you wants to know their every move, it's important to give your partner the space that they need in order to not feel suffocated. Whether your SO is staying in for a night with the girls or going out to the bars with the guys, sometimes they need a little time and space to just be with their friends.
No long distance relationship can survive without trust.
A lot of times, when relationships fail, it has to do with lack of trust. There's no way for a LDR to stay alive if you and your partner don't trust each other. When living in different cities, states, or even countries, you don't have the opportunity to physically see the decisions they are making, so you have to trust that they are doing what's best for the relationship. A long distance relationship requires that you have faith and confidence in your partner's choices, and that itself requires you to trust them an incredible amount.
Be supportive of your partner.
When you're far away from the person you love, you might second guess yourself more often than usual, and your partner will more than likely be feeling the same way. Even when the decision doesn't affect you, letting your partner know that you support them 100 percent will make them feel relieved and confident that they are making the right choices. Sometimes that little supportive pat on the back can go a long way.
Being in a long distance relationship can definitely be a challenge, but in the end, you learn a lot about life, love, and who you are as a person. The struggle is worth the prize: you'll grow as individuals and as a couple, and the bond between you will be one of the strongest you've ever experienced.
