Expert tips on how to make your long-distance relationship thrive

Home | Advice, Relationships | Expert tips on how to make your long-distance relationship thrive

Amaarah January 2 min read ▪ March 12, 2025 ▪ Image: Shutterstock

You may be far away from your significant other, but these top tips will keep you closer than ever. Learn how to keep the connection strong in your long-distance relationship with this expert advice.

Lean into technology

Who says you can’t have dinner together or catch the latest episode of Love is Blind together? Although you are far apart, a virtual date using your cellphone, tablet or laptop is the perfect way to surpass hundreds of kilometres. “A lot of the glue of a relationship is in the day-to-day minutia, and with technology, you can share that in real time, instantaneously, with photos, texts and FaceTime. That’s very different from letters or long-distance phone calls,” says Lori Gottlieb, a psychotherapist who specialises in relationships.

Communication is key

Like in any relationship, effective communication is crucial for smooth sailing with your partner. What happens when you factor in not seeing your partner for long periods of time? It becomes even more important. Make sure to do daily check-ins with your S.O. Not only will it be something to look forward to every day, but it will also make you feel like you are a big part of each other’s days. Plus, it’s something to look forward to after a busy (and long) workday.

Plan for your next meet-up

Long distance relationships (in most cases) are temporary situations. After seeing each other on a long-awaited weekend-at-home, or exciting holiday trip together – make sure you start planning for your next meet-up. “Plan what you’re going to do the next time you’re together, as well as what you want to do in the more distant future. This not only gives you something to look forward to and helps to build anticipation, but research has found that couples who make future plans are more committed to one another and have longer-lasting relationships,” explains Dr Justin Lehmiller, and author of Tell Me What You Want.

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