10 tips to save a long-distance relationship and keep it working without dating

Long-distance relationships also referred to as LDRs in popular culture, are considered to be a considerable death blow to any relationship almost akin to a farewell for good. Usually, it sucks because it means a whole lot of online dating and no real dating for months. An LDR represents the worst nightmare for most people, but when left with no choice, they go through it anyways. (Hey, what would life be without unexpected twists and turns?)

Long-distance relationships although not perfect, do not represent “The End” of your love story either. Believe it or not, with the correct attitude, adherence to a few ground rules and the willingness to make it happen, can make an LDR flourish and reach new heights with time. We have drawn on the dating experts’ best advice to formulate 10 of the most useful tips that can help you keep the spark alive while you’re away from your partner. So read on, to rejuvenate your long-distance relationship.

Long-distance relationship tips based on the Guru’s advice

1. Set precise boundaries with mutual discussion

Setting boundaries is the most crucial step towards sustaining a long-distance relationship. You need to consult with your partner in setting up core guidelines – what is okay and what’s not. Well, it goes without saying that on top of these guidelines should be a pact about fidelity. Of course, either partner visiting dating sites while away is unacceptable. Apart from that, you should be discussing personal boundaries such as the respect of the other’s space, even if it happens to be the virtual one. A significant reason why long-distance relationships often crumble is an uncalled-for invasion of space.

2. Avoid excessive daily chatting

A lot of couples in LDR take every day chatting very seriously and consider it as mandatory for the health of their relationship in the long term. However, as a matter of truth, it can prove to be potentially harmful to your relationship. There is no need to be in communication daily. Going a few days without talking to your BAE can add much-needed excitement as you look forward to a conversation when the time comes. Moreover, keeping track of your partner, and keeping them posted about everything can not only prove to be exhaustive but put an unnecessary strain on your relationship.

3. Recognize that change is inevitable

Almost all experts are unanimous that the most common reason for the dysfunctional long-distance relationships is, unexpected changes catch most couples off guard couples since they haven’t planned ahead.

Do you remember the person you used to be, the last year? What kind of changes did you undergo since then? You see, with a lengthier period of being apart from each other, your current environment and peers, can heavily influence the circumstances of your relationship. You should prepare yourself for such a situation rather than getting all worked up when you encounter it and find yourself visiting dating sites.

4. Think Positively

Most couples believe that their long-distance relationship is destined for failure, thereby turning it into a self-fulfilling prophecy. You must maintain a positive outlook on your LDR and keep in mind that you’re not alone: There are millions of couples just like you undergoing the same thing.

5. Begin with the end in mind

You must realize the importance of being honest about what the future holds for your relationship. “Where will our relationship eventually lead us to?” e.g., an engagement or a live-in setup and “How long can we tolerate being apart?” are questions you need to ask each other. The hard truth is, no LDR can last forever, and you have to confront this reality sooner or later.

It is pertinent that you and your partner have an understanding of it and are following the same relationship goals. This way, you can get the motivation to work together towards a shared future, even if your timezones are different.

6. Find ways of doing things together despite the distance

Not being physically close to each other is no excuse to stop having fun together. You can watch a favorite romantic movie together on Netflix which lets you host a “watch party.” Moreover, you can play online games together and have much-needed fun.

7. Practice, “Honesty is the best policy”!

Do not shy away from talking about your feelings – insecurity, jealousy, anger or anything else. Hiding things will only make matters worse for both of you. Depend on your partner as a shoulder to cry on and offer yourself up for the same, instead of dealing with the emotional baggage yourself. Moreover, if you ended up joining dating sites just for some fun, admit it instead of hiding it.

8. Get each other a wearable item to hold on to

A souvenir – a pendant, ring, necklace, or even perfume can help remind you of your partner while you’re away. Physical items such as these can go a long way to store and share memories and help cope when you miss each other.

9. Learn from the success stories

Look around you; you will find loads of examples of couples in an LDR, who waged their distance gap in the best possible manner and made it work till the distance wasn’t there anymore. Read about such experiences on the Internet – perhaps a blog or someone’s inspiring video about their successful LDR.

10. Think about getting counseling

If you’re confused and have mixed feelings about whether or not your relationship has a good future, going to a therapist for couples counseling can be helpful towards setting things straight. It can enable you to identify and resolve issues that may be hampering your relationship.

Final Thoughts

Making a little effort and capitalizing on your strengths as partners while working on weaknesses, can help you sustain a long-distance relationship for as long as you desire. Hopefully, these tips will help you do just that!