The statistics show that only 58% of long-distance relationships are successful. Understandably, long-distance partnerships are challenging and require a lot of work. This is largely due to the wide range of unsuccessful stories of many couples. Although all relationships are not without challenges, long-distance ones require more work to maintain. However, this can be overwhelming, especially if you don't know where to start. Fortunately, there are several tips to ensure your long-distance relationship stands the test of time. Here are a few.
1. Enjoy Your Time Apart
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Of course, you yearn to spend all day with your partner, gazing into their eyes and making beautiful memories together. Although this does help your relationship grow stronger, so does making time to enjoy your independence. The truth is, there is more to you and your life than just your relationship. You still have other things you need to attend to, such as your family, friends, career, and individual goals. Instead of wallowing and feeling lonely, use the time apart to do other activities, such as going to the gym or starting a new hobby. However, in enjoying your time apart, avoiding putting yourself in dangerous situations that can harm your relationship is vital. For example, while it is fine to meet new people, you should set up boundaries to avoid creating issues between you and your significant other.
2. Know Each Other's Love Language
Understanding each other's love language is important for building a strong long-distance relationship. Knowing whether your partner values words of affirmation, receiving gifts, spending quality time together, intimacy, or acts of service can make a significant difference.
These days, you can easily use online platforms to take a Love Language Quiz, which helps you identify what makes your partner feel most loved and appreciated. By understanding their love language, you can tailor your actions and communications to better meet their emotional needs. This deepens your connection, even when miles apart, and ensures both partners feel valued and understood, ultimately strengthening the bond between you.
3. Set Realistic Relationship Goals
Long relationship distances work better when you are both on the same page. And the best way to accomplish it is to create realistic goals for your relationship. Relationship goals help you and your partner determine the direction and purpose of the relationship. It helps you identify the areas you can improve in. When in a long-distance relationship, goals help you prepare for the future you both envision. For example, if you're an American citizen and your partner is from and lives in another country, setting relationship goals would help you determine the best way to finally settle together. In this case, you may consider applying for a K-1 visa, which is a fiancé visa, allowing you and your partner to live peacefully in the US. When creating goals, consider factors such as dealing with each other's insecurities, resolving conflict, your core values and beliefs, and emotional management.
4. Communicate Effectively And Honestly
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Communication is the foundation of a healthy relationship. Through open communication, couples can share their thoughts and opinions to better themselves and their relationship. In long-distance relationships, communication helps consolidate your bond with your partner. To ensure your communication is effective and honest, you must set a safe area for that to happen. For example, your partner would be unable to have healthy conversations if they feel judged or unheard. Communication should also happen as regularly as possible. However, you should ensure that it is not excessive. Excessive communication can be unhealthy as it makes you clingy and possessive— attributes that can easily turn your relationship sour. Therefore, you should avoid spamming your partner with calls and texts.
