6 Tips for Long-Distance Dating

Whether your boyfriend or girlfriend lives far away, is stationed in another state, deployed overseas, or working elsewhere, you can keep the fire alive in your relationship with a few long-distance dating tips.

6 Tips for Long-Distance Dating

You can maintain a strong relationship even when you’re separated. It takes effort, considering the other person’s needs and respecting their boundaries. It also takes a level of trust. Long-term, long-distance dating can be more challenging, and you may want to consider seeking help from a counselor.

For example, a couple separated by one taking a new job in another state may have an easier time over the next four months before the wedding compared to the couple separated by a year-long deployment overseas.

The following is a list of several tips for long-distance dating.

Communicate Often

Communication lines must stay open and honest. Let your other half know you are thinking of them with calls, video chats, and memes. A little text in the middle of the day, letting them know they’re on your mind, can bring you closer. With today’s technology, seeing each other face-to-face virtually can make the distance seem shorter.

Ask Questions

When you speak to your significant other, ask questions and actively listen to their responses. Don’t get so caught up in what you want to say that you miss the details. People build trust and confidence with others when they believe that the person is taking a genuine interest in them.

Do Something Together Virtually

Engage in activities you can share virtually. For example, stream a movie at the same time, cook dinner while video chatting, or play a game online. Think of ways the two of you can share an experience. How about a virtual tour of a historical place? You can discuss what you see. How many plays, movies, and tours can you stream together?

Plan Visits

To get through the long days, plan visits, if possible. Although some partners are overseas, and you may not be able to see them as often, plan for a visit during their leave. If your significant other is working in another city or state, can you visit them once a week or once a month? Make a list of things you can do while you’re together. When you are face-to-face, stay in the present. Make their presence a priority.

Make Gift Giving Personal

Make your significant other’s gifts personal. Whether the gift is hand wrapped by you, something only you would know they would want, or just a handwritten note, take the time to personalize their gifts. People can tell when something has been purchased just to fulfill the need for a present. Make your gift touch their heart.

Work on Trust

This separation isn’t forever. Work on building trust during this time apart. Learn to appreciate each other and cherish the time you can spend together. Pray over the phone. Send cute videos to wake them in the morning. If you have trouble being apart, consult a counselor to understand what is behind the issue and how to learn to trust your significant other.

Online Christian Couples Counseling

Concerned that your relationship won’t make it with long-distance dating? Trying to maintain a relationship from far away has its many challenges, but it’s not impossible. Consider couples counseling to help you work through any obstacles and prevent communication breakdown. You can hold a session virtually at a time slot that works for both of you. Contact our office today to schedule a session with a Christian counselor.