A long distance relationship requires commitment, strong bonds with each other, telling the truth and being completely honest with each other. To endure it requires two people who genuinely love each other. The type of long distance relationship I am talking about is dating abroad or international dating. This is really a long distance relationship.

Being in this type of relationship is one of the hardest things you can do, but it is worth it. Being away from someone you’ve come to love can be emotionally draining, but here are some tips that can help.

1. You must communicate regularly. A mix of emails, phone calls, instant messages, Skype, or webcam sessions are great ways to communicate in a long-distance relationship. With work and other daily obligations, communication may be the first thing to go missing. Try to establish a daily routine. The best time is usually at the end of the day, when you can both talk about how it went. Even just a few minutes together every day to connect and communicate with each other can produce amazing results.

2. Another nice thing can be to surprise them with a call or text about how much you miss or love them.. An occasional unexpected voicemail, email, or text can go a long way to show them that you’re thinking of them throughout the day.

3. Both of you will have to compromise at times. You may need to forego weekend plans or stay home from a party in order to connect with your partner via phone, webcam, or text. When out with friends or family, be sure to tell your partner what she’s up to and be sure to include them in your daily activities so they better understand your life and how you spend your time. Keep them included in your life. Make time for them. Even if you have to work all weekend, be sure to connect and let them know you’re thinking of them.

4. Set aside time on a weekend every once in a while for them too. Plan to hang out on the webcam and talk on the phone and just talk about your childhood, the fun things that have happened to you, and your hopes and dreams for the future. Listen to your partner’s stories, too. These moments are very valuable to really get to know someone.

5. You have to trust that your partner is being faithful and committed to you. It can be hard to trust, and it’s perfectly natural for bad thoughts to creep into your mind from time to time. Be sure to talk about this with your partner. Jealousy and mistrust will not keep you together. Honesty and willingness to communicate.

6. Never assume that you know what your partner is doing or thinking. If you have doubts or questions about something, ask! Email communication is especially difficult because you can’t see the other person’s face or hear their tone of voice. You can misinterpret an email, and if you don’t ask about it, you could create negative or harsh feelings without even realizing it.

7. Keep the romance alive by telling your partner how much they mean to you. Feel free to send a spontaneous email or text. Let them know you are thinking of them. Let them know you miss them and try to always plan your next meeting so there is something positive to look forward to and talk about.

This may seem like a lot to take in, but it will be worth it when you are finally together. A couple who has survived a long-distance relationship is stronger, and their relationship is built on a firm foundation of communication, trust, and patience. Good luck and enjoy getting to know each other one day at a time!