Top 10 ways to stay connected when dating long distance

TOP 10 WAYS TO STAY CONNECTED WHEN DATING LONG DISTANCE

The term long distance relationship or LDR really has a new meaning in the 21st century. Although being part of one still has its challenges, they’re no where near those of ten or twenty years ago. The fact is, these days it’s easier than ever to stay connected with those we care for and making an effort can give significant results. Sure, little can replace the feeling of actually being with someone 1:1, but the substitutes now available aren’t to be knocked. To take full advantage of all the options open to you in an LDR, check out the tips below from Berkeley International.

1 - BE OPEN ABOUT YOUR SCHEDULE

Whether you see your partner once a week or once a month, communicating your schedule is always a way to make each other feel significant. Apart from the practicalities of knowing when it’s best to call or text, it means that no one is left hanging when one of you goes off the radar for a meeting or dinner with friends.

- MARINA MILANI, ITALY

2 - SHARE GOALS

Like any relationship, a shared vision for the future is necessary to ensure you’re both a) in it for the right or same reasons and b) that you are indeed working toward something. Also, be clear about whether this LDR is temporary and if so, have an idea of when you’re likely to unite permanently.

3 - PLAN AHEAD

Always have something bright and breezy to look forward to. It could be seeing a show or dinner at the new hot spot. Whatever it is, make sure to take it as seriously as you would any other plans. That means booking flights, hotel rooms or tickets and putting it in your calendar.

- HILDE WATTY,

FRANCE, LUXEMBURG,

AMSTERDAM,

MALTA

4 – SEND CARE PACKAGES

So if you can’t be together in person, send something personal. This is supposed to be someone you know and care about, so show them exactly how much by putting some thought into it. Don’t send anything generic, send them music that reminds you of them, a hand written letter or their favourite confectionary if they’re somewhere they can’t get a hold of it. Every one likes gifts and care packages make it feel like Christmas.

5 - WAKE UP AND GO TO SLEEP TOGETHER

Waking up and going to sleep together means texting or emailing each other first thing when you wake or when you’re going to sleep. Setting your alarms and synchronising sleep patterns isn’t necessary and is unlikely to be fun for anyone, especially if you’re in different time zones. A simple good morning and good night from your place in the world however, does wonders to let people know they’re on your mind.

- GENEVIÈVE HEINZ, BELGIUM

6 - ACTIVITIES

Taking part in joint activities even when you’re not together is amazing for keeping the fun alive in LDRs. It adds another dimension to conversations and stops them being purely about catching up on information you may have missed. Most phones these days allow you to download online games such as Scrabble or chess, where you can each play your turn in your own time. If games aren’t your thing, try watching shows together on Netflix or reading the same book.

7 - VISIT EACH OTHER

Whilst this may seem an obvious thing to do, it’s astounding the amount of people who rely on only one partner to do all the travel. Flipping arrangements occasionally may mean one of you taking time off work or a tiring whirlwind trip that you’re not used to, but if you value the relationship it’s worth stepping outside of your comfort zone once in a while.

- ANNEMIEKE DUBLOIS,

BELGIUM

8 – SKYPE OR CALL

With the availability of text and email it can be very easy to think you’re communicating as much as you need to be. However, don’t underestimate the power of hearing another person’s voice or seeing them real-time on screen. Every few days, reconnect in this way and make it the norm as opposed to the rarity.

9 - PHONE SEX

Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. Voice, text, photos, do whatever works for you or your partner and remember that the need for sexual attention from each other doesn’t stop just because you’re miles apart.

- MAIREAD MOLLY, CANNES

10 - ROUND UPS

When you’ve both left each other after a week or weekend together, take some time to reflect on your favourite moments. Write an email telling your partner what those were and be as detailed as you can. Let them know how they made you feel. It will be like reliving the good times and you’ll both learn more about what the other most valuesAt Berkeley we are able to provide our expert matchmaking services around the world [http://www.berkeley-international.com/where-we-work/]. Don't hesitate to contact us [http://www.berkeley-international.com/enquire/]and let us find the love of your lifeThis article was guest written by Tori Ufondu, Mindset Breakthrough Coachw: tori-ufondu.com [http://tori-ufondu.com/] | sm: @tori_ufondu [https://twitter.com/tori_ufondu]