5 Sure Ways To Help Make Your Long-Distance Relationship Work

Ah, long-distance relationships. The romantic gamble that makes you ask, “How much do I really like this person?” Spoiler alert: If you’re about to enter one, already in one, or thinking of closing the gap, you’re definitely not alone. Tons of couples take the “distance makes the heart grow fonder” approach… But does it really? Or does distance just make you mildly annoyed while counting down the days till your next in-person date? The truth is, it can go either way, but with the right game plan, you and your partner can keep the spark alive and make it work (without losing your sanity).

Communication is Everything

First things first, forget the old “we’ll chat when we feel like it” model. Long-distance relationships require regular, intentional communication. But that doesn’t mean you need to be texting relentlessly like star-crossed lovers from a Shakespearean tragedy.

Here’s the trick:

• Schedule calls or video chats a few times a week, and focus on quality, not quantity. Long-winded updates about TPS reports? Save those for coworkers. Use this time to really connect with your partner on meaningful stuff (yes, feelings count).
• Bonus points if you mix it up! Send voice notes, drop a random meme that reminds you of them, or even write a good ol’ fashioned love letter. Yup, people still write those.

Stop Overthinking Everything (Seriously, Stop It!)

Here’s the thing about long-distance relationships that no one likes to talk about… the distance screws with your head. Why didn’t they text back right away? Do they miss me as much as I miss them? Are they secretly having candlelit dinners with someone else?

Most of this paranoia is fueled by distance and nothing else. Trust your partner (like, truly trust them). Instead of jumping to conclusions, have an honest conversation if you’re feeling insecure. If something’s bothering you, say it. Keeping things bottled up in a long-distance relationship is the emotional equivalent of stepping on a Lego barefoot. Painful and unnecessary.

Make Virtual Dates Actually Fun

Stop pretending that standard texts or video calls are the pinnacle of connection. You’re better than that. Turn your distance into a chance to get creative:

• Cook Together: Choose a recipe and prepare a meal while on a video call. Bonus points for Instagram-worthy plating (or laughing over your kitchen disasters).
• Virtual Movie Nights: Use extensions like Teleparty to sync up movies or shows. Popcorn is optional, but highly recommended.
• Online Games: Whether it’s battling it out in Mario Kart or solving puzzles in a co-op game, a little friendly competition goes a long way.
• Art Dates: Yup, grab some markers or paint, and create masterpieces (or disasters) together while chatting.

The goal? Remind yourselves that distance doesn’t mean dullness.

Plan Visits Like It’s a Military Operation

If you can manage in-person visits, make those visits count. This isn’t the time for low effort. Think road trips, favorite restaurants, or low-key binge-watching marathons. Most importantly, work together on a schedule for visits that feel fair and balanced. Having the next trip on the calendar can make even the hardest days a little easier.

Play the Long Game

This might sting for some of you, but a long-distance relationship without a plan for closing the gap is just prolonged heartbreak waiting to happen. Sit down (virtually or in-person) and discuss the big questions:

• When or how do we close the distance?
• Are we willing to make sacrifices (new job? new city? goodbye to Mom and Dad)?
• What’s the timeline, Captain?

Having this conversation doesn’t mean things are easy to solve, but it gives both of you something concrete to work toward.

Accept That Personal Growth Rocks (Even When You’re Apart)

Here’s a brutal truth bomb: Depending on someone to make you happy 24/7 while you’re separated is a fast-track to disappointment. While they’re off living their life, you should be living yours too. Pick up a hobby, learn a new skill, or rearrange your living room. The more fulfilled you are independently, the better your relationship will be when you’re together and apart.

Closing Thoughts (Or Why You Shouldn’t Quit Just Yet)

Yeah, long-distance relationships are basically romantic boot camps. They test your patience, your communication skills, and your ability to not flinch every time someone suggests, “That’s going to be so hard.” But for the right relationship, the effort is absolutely worth it.

If at the end of the day, you’re with someone who makes you laugh, lets you be yourself, and sends care packages with your favorite snacks… you’re already winning. And the best part? Once you get through all the long Zoom calls, flight delays, and “Wish you were here” texts, you’ll appreciate the moments together even more.

Want to show your partner just how much you care? Start planning that surprise weekend visit. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself when you see their reaction.