Many people are in long distance relationships. With jobs taking them to different places these days, it’s not surprising that some couples continue their relationship even when they’re apart from each other.

It is possible for this type of relationship to work out and even end in marriage. As long as the couples involved commit to making it work, get their priorities right, and find ways to keep the relationship strong despite the distance, it can survive the test of time.

Relationship experts actually consider being in a long-distance relationship healthy for couples. On the one hand, being apart allows each individual to pursue their own career and ambitions and develop a sense of independence. Second, separation develops in each person a yearning for each other.

Here are ways that can guide you to keep your relationship intact for a long time. When you can follow these steps, you can be sure that you and your partner will be satisfied.

Being honest with each other from the start is essential. If you’re not married yet, this means setting your boundaries, like whether you’re going to be exclusive to each other or date without any strings attached. This will help you avoid misunderstandings and ensure you are on the same page.

As you discuss this, also make it clear what your end goal is. You can agree on how long the separation will last to allow you to plan your lives together. If it is possible to visit your partner in your new place or have your partner come to your home on certain occasions, be sure to schedule this as well.

Making time for each other is another important step to take. No matter how busy you are, always take the time to call, text or chat with your partner. Communication should not be a major problem today with the existence of mobile and smartphones as well as the Internet. If you can, set up a time based on your location to video chat so you can see each other. It gives a different feeling when you are able to see each other face to face despite the distance.

Staying busy with work will allow you to focus on what you love to do most. This will also help you get rid of the loneliness that can attack you from time to time. Surely it will be difficult at first to concentrate on what you are doing when you know that you will not see your partner for some time. It’s natural to feel this way when both of you were used to spending weekends together.

But again, you need to stay strong while in this situation and worrying is one of the best ways to take your mind off your partner.

Remember that for any long-distance relationship to work, it’s important for couples to lay a solid foundation. This will help them cope with each other’s absence and avoid the expectations of their partners.