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Nour Nazmi, Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

Long-distance relationships can be a rollercoaster of difficult-to-understand emotions—from the misunderstandings that happen because of the tools you use to communicate to the loneliness of missing your partner. But don’t let the challenges overwhelm you—you can make your long-distance relationship thrive with the right strategies and mindset. 

 

In this article, we’ll discuss three tips to help you navigate the ups and downs of a long-distance relationship so you can build a healthy and lasting bond with your partner without worrying about whether your story will be like all those unsuccessful love stories. 

 

Tip #1: Communication is Key

 

Communication is the foundation of any successful relationship—and it’s even more vital in long-distance relationships, where the lack of physical proximity can lead to feelings of loneliness and misunderstanding. Here are a few suggestions to help you become a better communicator: 

• Practice active listening: Active listening involves paying attention to what the other person says and responding to show you understand and care by avoiding distractions, asking thoughtful questions, and summarizing what you’ve heard to ensure you’ve understood it correctly. 

 

• Be clear and concise: Instead of complex language that often leads to confusion and misunderstandings, use simple language, avoid jargon or technical terms, and get to the point quickly.

 

• Show empathy: Empathy involves putting yourself in the other person’s shoes and understanding their perspective. It’s a well-known aspect of emotional intelligence that allows you to connect on deeper levels and navigate conflicts more effectively.

 

• Use non-verbal cues: Non-verbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice, can convey information about how you’re feeling and what you’re trying to communicate. These cues not only help to clarify or reinforce the meaning of spoken words but also help to regulate the flow of the conversation. 

 

Tip #2: Set Expectations and Boundaries

 

Setting expectations and boundaries early on in a long-distance relationship can be the difference between a failed relationship and a successful one. Here are a few suggestions to help you navigate this area: 

• Establish communication expectations: Establishing communication expectations often involves discussing how often you will communicate, what methods of communication you will use, and how you will handle miscommunications or conflicts. Setting clear communication expectations will help you and your partner feel connected and supported despite the distance.

• Ask insightful and revealing questions: Asking questions helps couples stay connected and build intimacy and trust. These questions may include the following: What are your values? What are your future plans? What’s your communication style and level of commitment? What are you not willing to compromise on? What are you comfortable giving? What do you hope to gain? 

• Discuss personal space and time boundaries: In any relationship, setting boundaries around personal space and time is crucial, but it’s especially essential in a long-distance one. One effective way to do this is to set aside designated times for alone time or self-care, during which both partners agree not to contact each other. By respecting each other’s boundaries, you can reduce stress, foster trust and mutual respect, and ensure you and your partner feel valued and supported. 

 

Tip # 3 Be Creative and Stay Positive

 

By staying creative and positive, you can keep the relationship fresh and help build a strong foundation for your future together. Here are three ways to stay creative and positive when your partner lives miles away:

• Pursue individual hobbies or interests: Just because you’re in a long-distance relationship doesn’t mean you have to put your life on hold. Pursue your own hobbies and interests, and encourage your partner to do the same. When you learn something new from these activities, you can use your new insights to keep your conversations meaningful and full of life. 

• Practice gratitude and positive thinking: It’s easy to get bogged down in negative thoughts when you’re in a long-distance relationship—but practicing gratitude and positive thinking can help you stay optimistic and focused on the good things in your life. Take time each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for, reframe negative thoughts into positive ones, practice positive self-talk, and surround yourself with positive people. The beauty of gratitude and positive thinking is that they don’t cost a thing, and you can expect to see positive results in no time.

• Volunteer or give back: Helping others can be a great way to cultivate a sense of gratitude and positivity. Consider volunteering your time or resources to a cause you care about, or do something kind for someone else. By giving back, you can shift your focus away from negative thoughts and towards the positive impact you can have on others.

 

Resources for Long-Distance Relationships

 

If you’re struggling with your long-distance relationship, you don’t need to struggle alone. There are many resources out there that can help you gain more clarity. Here are some free online support groups and services you can access:

 

Loving from a Distance: A website dedicated to helping people in long-distance relationships. They offer advice, tips, and a supportive community of fellow people who are in a long-distance relationship.

LDR Magazine: They offer free e-books with ideas for fun webcam dates, conversation starters.
 

The Distance: A podcast dedicated to sharing stories from couples who have successfully navigated long-distance relationships. The host offers practical advice and inspiration to help you keep moving forward. 

 

Whether you’re just starting a long-distance relationship or you’ve been in one for a while, these tips can help you stay connected with your romantic partner. Remember to prioritize communication, trust, and support—and don’t forget to have fun along the way. 

 

We’d love to hear your thoughts and additional tips! Share your experiences and insights in the comments below to help others in similar situations. Let’s support each other in building strong, healthy long distance relationships!

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Nour Nazmi is a Toronto-based writer, editor and purpose-driven communications professional. When she is not at work or volunteering, she’s either on LinkedIn Learning or creating new products for DM Tees Designs, her eco-friendly business on Etsy.