If you’re the traveling type (like Jason Hartman) or the moving abroad type, you may be involved in a long distance relationship. While it can be difficult, it is certainly doable. Assuming that both parties are willing to work extra hard on good communication, long distance relationships can actually strengthen relationships.

To keep yourself and your partner sane and healthy, follow these simple tips!

First, make sure that all parties are committed to the relationship. It’s going to be difficult, so make sure that you really want it. It’s best if you and your partner can have an honest conversation about your feelings going into the relationship. Talk openly about your expectations and develop a plan to make it work.

Next, consider writing down your expectations for the relationship. It may sound cheesy, but having these written affirmations will help you both feel more secure in your relationship. Write down things like how you feel, specific things you will do to maintain your relationship, etc. This can be as simple as committing to text each other when you wake up or calling every other day.

Make visiting one another a priority. You may be separated by a few hours by car or a day by airplane. Either way, make sure you have a plan for seeing each other in person. Plan to use your time together as a vacation, and make arrangements to leave work at home so the time you spend together is quality. Save money and find a way to visit as a sign of your commitment.

You should also establish a plan for the long term, which will help the (hopefully) short term distance. Where do the two of you hope to end up? Set a time frame for the distance, a plan for afterward (are you moving in together? Marrying? Etc.) and go forward.

Finally, establish a community of support in the area in which you are currently living. While you may feel lost without your partner, you need to maintain your individual identity too. Get a job, join a book club, and make friends who can help you through difficult times. It is important to develop a life outside of your partner to remain committed to your partner—a happy individual makes for a happier relationship! (photo credit: Auzigog via photopin cc)

* Read more from Jetsetter

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Financially Surviving a Divorce

The Jetsetter Show Team

Tags: expatriate, international travel, Jason Hartman, long distance relationship, The Jetsetter Show