The increasing social media world combined with online dating sites makes it more and more likely that people are meeting and dating someone from a distance. In the old days you could meet your guy for a drink on the spur of the moment or call them over in the middle of the night just because you miss them. With so many people dating someone that may be anywhere from an hour away to a country away, things have changed dramatically. For some people, long distance dating is simply not an option; others are willing to give it a try. Keep in mind, that long distance relationship just might turn out to be your soul mate, you will never know until you try.
If you are in a LDR or considering one, here are a few tips to help you keep things going:
- Communication. Have an open conversation about what you both want and where you hope to end up. This discussion should cover everything from expectations on being exclusive to what you hope to achieve long term. This may be a good time to discuss whether either party is willing to relocate should things get serious.
- Trust is Major. If you can’t trust your partner, long distance dating is not for you! There will be times when you simply don’t know where they are or who they are with and trust will have to be there to make it all work. Both parties should be willing to do what is necessary to strengthen the bonds and avoid doing things that would be disloyal to that trust.
- Touch Base Regularly. This is major! People in long distance relationships do not have the advantages others have. They don’t see each other as often so they have to be willing to do what they can to stay in touch, to get in sync. In the world of electronics this is just not that hard. Phone calls, texts, emails and video chats all make sure you are engaged in checking in with each other to keep that spark alive.
- Snail Mail. Don’t snooze on the benefits of snail mail either. Write love letters or poems, send a card. That personal touch really goes a long way.
- Gifts. Don’t forget the advantage of sending things to someone just to let them know they are on your mind. Send flowers just because, or perhaps home made gifts or baked goods, it’s the thought that counts. A little can really go a long way.
- Plan Dates in Advance. Try to see each other as often as you can. Whether you take turns going to each other or choose to meet halfway, time together is one of the most valuable quality times you will have. If you plan your next date before you part ways, it makes leaving each other easier and gives you both something to look forward too.
- Photos. This can actually serve more than one purpose. Sending photos back and forth helps with the distance and the inability to see each other as often as you would like. It also allows you both to share your daily lives with each other with everything from self portraits to photos of food, locations or other things you may want to share from the funny to the sentimental.
Comments