Long distance relationships are on the rise. Whether due to career changes or online dating, it’s become clear that people are becoming more flexible and open to dating and marriage from afar. The playing field, however, is a little different when it comes to long distance relationships. There are different risks and rewards than those of the more conventional dating and marriage life.

See Also: Why Many Relationships Fail & How To Win “The Dating Game”

So let’s dive in! Here is the MOST important advice we’ve gathered from other couples who are in long distance relationships that rock!

Long Distance Relationship Tip #1 – Make Time

The golden rule of long distance dating is to schedule time into your calendar to connect. It is important to set aside time every day to talk to each other whether over phone or video chat without any distractions. Planning ahead helps! If you’re not able to jump on a call every day at least send a text or e-mail to at least touch base and let them know you’re thinking about him or her.

Planning is the key. By setting dates to visit one another you create anticipation and excitement. Planned dates are something to look forward to and keeps the spark alive. Plan visits as often as possible and not just when it is expected, such as for holidays. Make sure to take turns making the trip to see one another, otherwise resentment may build up.

Long Distance Relationship Tip #3 – Learn their Love Language

Check out the 5 Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman to make sure you’re able to express your love in the most deep and meaningful way by speaking their “Love Language”. Often times we express our love in our own Love Language and fail to understand that of our significant other. By learning their love language you’ll better understand how to meet their needs in the relationship whether you are far or close!

If their love language is gifts, here is an amazing option – bring them our upcoming retreat:

Long Distance Relationship Tip #4 – Set Reasonable Expectations

Long distance relationships are not easy, so don’t expect it to be. However, by setting realistic expectations together you’ll better navigate the trials and tribulations that come with the territory. Remember to stay focused on the big picture of one day being together with the one you love and don’t let each other get too caught up in the small stuff.

Long Distance Relationship Tip #5 – Be Understanding

When you don’t get to see each other everyday, you may not know what they are going through in his or her life all the time. Therefore, rather than letting our minds run wild when they are late, or they don’t call or text when expected, we must give him or her the benefit of the doubt and the space to explain. Most importantly, we must be understanding to what they are going through even when we are not there to fully understand.

Long Distance Relationship Tip #6 – Practice Gratitude

Make it a goal each day to share what you are grateful for in your lives and relationship. Sharing gratitude will help you focus on all the positive things, increase your energy, and boost your mood as well!  When you share your gratitude with each other whether over the phone, text, or email you’ll eliminate fear and worry in your lives and especially those that come along with long distance dating.

Related: The BEST Way To Communicate With Women (Do’s & Dont’s!)

For more modern dating advice for love that last, be sure to drop you email in the toolbar at the top of this page! 

To remember these long-distance dating tips, pin the infographic below to your Pinterest board for a great reminder: