Relationships are by far one of the most controversial topics in the world. The multitude of information that bombards us daily about how to make love work can be weighty. Despite the overflow of information and the conflicting opinions about relationships, there is one thing everyone can agree on, love is hard work.

Even in a seemingly perfect love story, there will be turmoil. Even more so, long-distance relationships challenge the strength of a couple in unimaginable ways.

While distance creates new obstacles, studies show couples in long-distance relationships express equivalent, if not greater satisfaction, compared to couples who are close in proximity.

Long-distance relationships are not for everyone, but to those who are have decided to take the risk, here are some suggestions on how to maintain a healthy relationship despite being miles apart:

Make Creative Communication a Crucial Component

Unlike couples who cohabitation, individuals in long-distance relationships are charged with the task of building a bond without the consistent physical closeness.  Left with minimal resources, couples in a long-distance relationship learn to rely on various modes of communication to connect with your significant other.

Utilizing various methods of communication will help to keep your union vibrant. Be open to testing your options. Video chatting, emailing, text messaging, hand-written letters, phone calls and social media are all means of staying in tune with your partner’s day-to-day interactions. Be creative.

Find Ways to Grow Collectively

Make an honest attempt not to be consumed by the distance. Instead, find ways that you and your partner can grow your lives together. Be intentional about sharing experiences with your spouse.

Allow your partner to enjoy activities with you. Try watching a TV series together, reading the same book, attending religious services and sharing the lessons or engaging in similar physical activities.

Geography is an imaginary hurdle. Distance doesn’t have to keep you and your partner from engaging in each other’s lives.

Make Visiting with One Another a Priority

The high point of every long-distance relationship is the moment you and your partner get to see each other in person. The anticipation of being in each other’s presence, touching, kissing, cuddling, going on dates, etc., carries relationships from the last visit to the next.

Acknowledge that traveling is absolutely crucial for making your relationship work. Make this of high importance. And when you do, cherish every bit of your time together, making sure you’re fully present in the moment.

Don’t Be Too Ashamed to Sext

Unless you and your significant other have decided to wait until marriage to make love, sexting can be monumental in your long-distance love affair.

Seductive text messages, racy photos and flirtatious phone conversations will keep your relationship hot and heavy. Risque sexting conversations between you and your lover are equally as important as the conversations about your life decisions and goals. Find the balance.

Do Not Break Trust

You made a promise to commit yourself to your partner. A long-distance relationship can be lonely and emotionally taxing. Not having the instant gratification of being able to be in your partner’s company every night can be trying, but it’s never an excuse to step outside your relationship.

If you find yourself struggling to stay loyal to your significant other, let your partner know. A long-distance relationship requires open and honest communication. Be sure to build a union where you and your lover are comfortable talking to one another about everything, especially when things are starting to get too difficult to handle.

Enjoy the Space

Long-distance relationships surely have their pitfalls, however, there are some clear benefits. One perk of a long-distance relationship is it allows you and your partner the opportunity to enjoy your independence.

Relationships can be consuming. You fall in love and before you know it, all your time and energy is being devoted to your lover. This can leave very little time for your hobbies and friends. Take advantage of the distance by using your leisure time to focus on your professional endeavors and personal development.

If and when you eventually move to the same place together, you will have already learned to respect one another’s independence (you’ll know that enjoying personal time is just that, and it doesn’t mean your mate prefers spending time away from you).

The ability for two people to grow collectively is not determined by proximity but the willingness to fight for their relationship. The trust, communication and emotional intimacy shared between long-distance couples are unique. Vital to the success of long-distance relationships, these couples depend heavily on their ability to have meaningful and open exchanges.

If you are in a long-distance love affair and questioning how to keep your relationship cheerful, know that creative communication, intentional shared experiences, scheduled visits, sexting and remaining committed to your partner are all critical components of making your long-distance romance last.

BMWK, did you have or currently have a long-distance relationship? If so, give us your tips on how you made your relationship work?