Long distance relationships are difficult to manage. There is the pain of separation combined with anxiety about the other partner’s activities and safety. Initially, spending time apart might seem appealing due to the "distance makes the heart grow fonder" cliché. But when reality strikes, you have no choice but to find ways to keep the relationship going.

Before you commit yourself to a long distance relationship, get an idea of what you are in for. Is your partner based far away or does the distance between you permit for occasional weekends together? Are you or your partner willing to relocate if the need arises? Are you both committed to a monogamous relationship? There are so many factors to consider.

An important key to surviving long distance relationships is good communication. Make it a point to talk to each other over the phone or communicate through e-mails or IM. You can send pictures or use web cams when both of you are online. Good communication reduces the distance that separates two individuals.

As in all other relationships, trust is vital for the survival of a long distance relationship. Long distance relationships give you ample opportunity to doubt your partner. For example, an unanswered phone call can trigger suspicion in a partner. Until and unless you trust your partner completely, do not go in for long distance relationships.

Send gifts to show you care. They do not need to always be expensive. Even a photo of yourself or both of you in a decorative frame will suffice. There are several ideas for great gifts - you can buy your partners favorite perfume or chocolate, jewelry, accessories or you can send them a bouquet of flowers. The possibilities are endless.

Share your feelings with your partner. Be willing to be honest about your feelings. Your partner cannot see your face or your body language therefore they may have a tough time figuring out how you feel.

Do things together even while apart. For example, you can play a game together over the internet or you can go out for lunch with your friends when your partner is doing the same thing. Then you both can share your experiences. Such small things keep a relationship going.

Make it a point to meet up with your partner once in a while. This may be especially difficult when one partner is with the Armed Forces. However, for the others, this should be relatively simple. Plan to meet once or twice a month or once in a couple of months, as time and distance permits.

Finally, remember that a long distance relationship has its plus points. You don’t have to worry that things will get mundane. You will always find something new and special in your partner each time you meet and of course fights will be kept to a minimum since both partners know that the time they spend together is precious. So, relax and make the most of your long distance relationship. Who knows, one day, you might decide to settle down together and once routine sets in, you will be missing those halcyon days when your relationship was long distance.

Jonathan Pitts

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