by Colie Love

Created on: February 27, 2007   Last Updated: April 23, 2007

Any significant amount of distance between you and your better half will put a strain on the relationship. Long distance relationships are not easy; they require a kind of commitment and determination that some people just do not posses. They also require a lot of trust and faith in your partner. That being said, it can be done. There are a few things that are key to making it work that both partners must commit to from day one.

First, as with any relationship, communication is key. You must be able and willing to talk with you partner about anything and he/she must do the same for you. If there is a problem or issue that arises the both of you must be able to talk it through calmly and rationally without hanging up on each other, which is so easy to do when your only option for communication is the phone. Arguments do happen, and things do get heated, however when this happens the two of you must be able to take a step back from the matter until you have both cooled off and can discuss the issue more calmly.

Second, trust is a major factor. If you cannot trust the person you're with, don't even bother trying to make it work long distance. It won't. Jealousy and constant questioning will only make your partner doubt you. It will also only cause fights and arguments regardless of what the other person really is or is not doing. You have to be able to trust your partner otherwise you own doubts and insecurities will get the best of you in the long run.

Third, honesty is the building block of any good relationship. If you and your partner cannot be honest it will not work. If either of you lie, those lies will eventually come out and they will chip away at the foundation of your relationship until the whole thing crumbles.

All of this said, if you are in a long distance relationship expect a lot of time spent on the phone and a lot of difficult lonely nights. Just make sure that you are surrounded by people who support your commitment to your relationship. Also, go out and have fun once in a while! Don't sit at home pining away for your significant other every night. Just because the two of you can't have fun together, doesn't mean you can't have any fun at all!

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