Long Distance Relationships and Making Them Work

So how do you make your long distance relationship work? Anyone who has experienced this type of relationship knows it is hard work for both partners.

My foray in to online dating has presented this very issue. I've been communicating with a few gentlemen through online dating sites such as Match.com, Singlesnet.com, SirenSingles.com and Yahoo Personals. I like the setup and search parameters that Singlesnet has to offer plus it's very user friendly.

Since I am a single available woman and not currently dating anyone this was the perfect time to give online dating a try. It soon became apparent that my search parameters were going to extend beyond my current locality and with online dating I was no longer hampered by a specific geographic region; at least not on my part. But, it did bring up the question of what to do about the distance if and when my date and I did decide on more than emails and phone calls.

My last relationship ended fairly badly due to distance both professionally and personally. He was over four hundred miles away and the stress eventually became intolerable. Of course, hind site is twenty-twenty and we both could have done things differently. I think this gives me a little insight to what I can potentially do differently this time if the opportunity presents itself.

• Discuss and understand the relationship well. Realize that distance does put a strain on the relationship.
• Get to know each other and try to be understanding of the other's needs.
• Communication is key. It must be done regularly in any way possible.
• Do things together. Weekend getaways can be spent together. It's not about how often but the quality time you do spend together.
• Little unexpected surprises mean a lot. Books, music, gift cards, etc. can show you care. One of my favorite things is sending online gift cards; especially when it's unexpected.
• Remind yourself that the time you spend apart makes the time you spend together that much more special.
• Don't argue by emails. The written word is a tricky thing when you're mad and can be taken the wrong way. When you're upset, always communicate face-to-face.
• No jealousy or drama is allowed. This is a relationship killer. Each person still has a life and needs social interaction even if the other isn't physically there.