How to Survive a Long-Distance Relationship

Long-distance relationships can be tough. Apart from removing physical affection, the distance can also make it more difficult to relate to your significant other - as the day-to-day experiences of their lives become more removed from your own. However, long-distance relationships can also be incredibly rewarding, and when you finally get to see that special someone, it always seems worth the wait. So whether your sweetheart lives thousands of miles away, or is just on vacation for a few weeks, here are a few ideas to help keep the spark alive until you can see each other again.

1. Don't talk so much.

Seriously. I know this advice seems counter-productive, but it's in fact really useful. Calling your long-distance partner all day long might seem like a great idea, but it only makes their absence that much more apparent. Once long conversation a day is really enough! This way, you'll have a lot to catch up on when you do speak - you can fill them in on all the goings on of your day, tell them funny things that happened at the office, what you're planning on doing the next day, and how much you miss them. You'll leave the conversation feeling happy that you were able to speak to them, instead of feeling sad that they are so far away.

2. Do things together!

But, you ask, if we're in a long-distance relationship, how are we supposed to do things together? Easy! There are lots of things you can do together that don't have to involve actually being together. Read the same book at the same time, and discuss it with each other. You could each rent a movie, and watch it together over the phone. You can even play board games like Scrabble or Monopoly together over the internet.

3. Send each other things!

Nothing can brighten up someone's day like receiving a package they weren't expecting, especially if it's from their long-distance sweetheart. So, get those creative juices flowing and send them a surprise! It doesn't have to be expensive, or even fancy - just something thoughtful and sweet. Maybe a mix CD of songs you've heard recently that you think they'd like, or that remind you of them. Maybe a postcard, or a video of you doing something silly. And honestly, sending flowers never hurt anyone.

4. Make plans!

In a long-distance relationship, nothing is more exciting that being able to see that special someone again. So, capitalize on that excitement and plan what you're going to do while you're still apart! Maybe find interesting museum exhibits that are going on around that time, or make a reservation at their favorite restaurant in advance. Don't plan things too thoroughly, though - the element of surprise is still important.

5. Be honest.

Nothing poses problems to a long-distance relationship more than a lack of trust. So make it a point to always be honest with your significant other. In my experience, with a great majority of the things we lie about, we have no reason to not be honest. Cultivate and protect the trust of your relationship, even over the distance. If you're able to do that, you've jumped the biggest hurdle, and are on your way to having a successful long-distance relationship.