Long-distance relationships can work. Countless couples have made their relationships work against all odds. It isn’t magic, and there’s no secret sauce recipe to a successful relationship. Each of these couples will probably tell you that they survived the odds only because they both put in the effort to make the relationship work. That does not mean they didn’t have a tough time because of the distance or the loss of physical intimacy. What it means is that they found other ways and means to stay together, despite the distance.

None of them probably wanted the long-distance tag to their relationship. But these couples still found themselves in one. What matters most is that they chose to stay together, trust each other, and eventually, found a way out. The most significant contributor to making a long-distance relationship work is communication. Second, comes honesty. Long-distance relationships require constant work and effort. However, they are as (or sometimes more) rewarding as other romantic relationships.

We’re here to help you with some of the best tips to make a long-distance relationship work.

Communication

* Speak About Your Expectations: Communicating your expectations about the relationship, your partner, the future, and any other aspect of your personal life is crucial. It’s wrong to assume your partner will have the same outlook. It is best to communicate everything frankly. Have direct conversations about what things you would like to see and which things are abhorrent to you.

* Make Time For Each Other: Communicating when you’re free, when you’re busy, and about your day can help ease any stress or worries your significant other may have. You can also make time for each other by sending a text, a voice note, or a GIF. Some people plan a set time each day to talk. While this isn’t always the best (since circumstances may change), it may help you both talk each day and connect better. You may, sometime, want to visit your significant other. To do this, simply contact Immigration Advice Service for all your visa documentation and formalities.

* Share Your Calendars: Technology is your best friend. You should share your calendar with your partner, so they can keep track of when to call and when not to. You may often forget to tell your partner that you’ll be late, or you’re in an important meeting. Having the calendar handy will help you feel connected and give you a chance to know what’s happening in your partner’s life.

Romantic Gestures

* Be Extra: Being extra does not mean surprising your significant other by catching a flight to them each weekend. You could be extra by sending a box of chocolates, some cupcakes, or even a cup. Practicing how to go the extra mile can help you stay connected and be in each other’s thoughts throughout the day. You could even send a handwritten letter instead of an email.

* Plan Surprises: Surprise your partner with thoughtful gestures. You could buy tickets to a show to attend together (in the future), or plan a trip to see your partner (with the help of his/her friends), or send a sexy photo, and so on. Surprises help keep the excitement alive.

* Plan Dates: Dates are meant to be shared together. You both could cook something special and eat together over a video chat. Many couples plan a date over the weekend (usually Sundays) to spend together. A nice meal and a shared glass of wine go a long way in adding spice to your relationship. You should dress up and make an effort, like you would on a regular date where you both can hold hands. Planning these dates in advance will also give you both something to look forward to and enjoy.

Fun Things

Each relationship should have a few fun things to keep the love alive.

* Relationship Bucket List: Having a couples bucket list helps you plan your future goals. Many couples prefer a shared document that can be updated by both parties. Doing this will ensure that you can plan your holidays, adventures, and fun outings together. Some bucket list items may be out of the way, but at least you both will do them together.

* Creative Activities: Planning creative things to learn together also helps keep the relationship alive and healthy. If you both enjoy cooking, you should join an online cooking class, or a kickboxing class, join a book club, learn a new sport, and so on. There are many things you can do together and share progress. This way, you will always have something fresh to discuss, and you will keep strengthening your relationship as you progress. It is always best to have shared hobbies and discover new things to learn together.