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[1, 2]

Long Distance Relationships
Chapter 2

Another factor that greatly affects your ability to sustain a long distance relationship is your age and the stage of life you are in. For example, if you have been accepted at one university and your high-school sweetheart another, you could find that a long distance relationship may work out as you'll both be so involved with study that neither of you has the time for a full time relationship anyway. In this situation, you'll also see each other on holidays and during the summer. Many people that have recently ended a serious involvement may find comfort in a long distance relationship as they may still retain the personal space they require to rebuild their lives. On the other hand, if you are a single mom trying to juggle children and your career, you probably are looking for a partner who is a little more hands-on.

Listed below are some tips to help your long distance relationship work if you are involved in one:

1. E-mail or write often. These forms of communication are either free or so cheap that you can easily stay in contact daily. This helps to make you both feel that you are in touch with each other's daily lives and reaffirms your bond. This is particularly useful if you are somewhat eloquent and can write romantically with some measure of efficacy.

2. Telephone often. Long distance is now affordable and e-mail can't replace the sound of your loved one's voice and interactive communication. Besides, it's pretty hard to send kisses over the computer.

3. If you have a spat or any conflict, telephone and resolve the problem immediately. The silent treatment long distance can easily break up a relationship.

4. Establish a good support group at home. Make sure that you have a friend or family member to whom you can confide in.

5. Stay busy. The less time you have on your hands, the less time you will be pining for your loved one.

6. Get a pet. A dog or cat can be very good company and will show you lots of affection so that you won't feel as lonely. This also helps if you have trouble sleeping alone.

7. Indulge in your favorite hobby or develop a new one. This is the perfect time to take that class you have been putting off because you had been too busy.

8. Entertain in your home more often. If you frequently have guests over, your house won't seem so empty and quiet.
   

9. Masturbate often. If you have agreed to be monogamous, make sure that your sexual energy has an outlet until your lover returns home. Buy some good sex toys for extra or different stimulation.
   

10. Pay extra attention to your kids. If you have children together, they will miss Mommy or Daddy as much as you do. Help them to deal with their emotions and take the time to do some of the activities that the missing parent usually shared with them while ensuring you are not attempting to replace them.
    

11. Get extra help. If you live an especially hectic lifestyle (particularly with kids) and just won't be able to cope with all the tasks alone, hire some help. A cleaning lady or a nanny can do wonders for your to do list and your state of mind. If this isn't financially possible, you may on occasion wish to engage the assistance of friends. You may discover that many will be sympathetic to your situation and may turn to you in a future time of need.

Is it worth sustaining a long distance relationship? This question is one only those involved might answer. The most important aspect to remember is to be honest with yourself about whether you can personally commit to a long distance relationship. If you are in a long term relationship and the separation is temporary, you may find it difficult, but often worth coping and getting through it. If on the other hand, you are young and don't have much invested in the relationship, it may not be worth it. Factors like the amount of emotional support or intimacy that you need certainly play a role. Some people agree to stay in the relationship only if they are free to see other people. The only certainty here is that a long distance relationship requires a lot of effort, but if it involves someone that you are truly in love with, you will find a way to keep the flame burning.