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The Dos and Don'ts for a Successful Long-Distance Relationship

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Make Time for Each Other

This may sound obvious, but setting time out of both your days to catch up, discuss your highs and lows and have a late-night gossip session with your partner will be insurmountable when trying to make long-distance work. Random check-ins and "I'm thinking of you" texts will go a long way in making your partner feel seen

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Communication

u have heard it far too many times, and for good reason—communication is critical in maintaining a healthy, functional relationship, especially when apart from each other.

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Create a timeline of when you guys can see each other again. Being able to look forward to being in person again can give you both something to get excited about. Create a shared calendar countdown on your phone and start planning everything you guys will do on your next get-together.

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Planning

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None of what was said matters unless there is a strong foundation of trust. That goes to say that if you have doubts and countless questions about your relationship and you're unsure where you and your partner stand, long-distance may not be the right fit at this time. Trust is vital in making any relationship work. And last but not least, have patience. You both are figuring out this new arrangement as you go, so allow each other the space to do so.

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Trust

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A personal boundary caPrimping for an in-person first date is tough enough, and getting ready for a first date via FaceTime brings on a whole new set of challenges. Plus, thanks to what's been brought on by coronavirus, the latter seems to be the new normal (for now, at least).n also be one that you set for your own behavior. It is important to navigate unhealthy anger and resentment so you aren’t bringing negative energy into a shared space.

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DO cheat your hair to the side if you're opting for a ponytail. It's tougher to perceive depth through a computer screen, so if your hair is completely behind you, it might look as if you don't have much of it. — JSK

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Hair

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channel your inner Stefani Germanotta, rather than your inner Lady Gaga. A bold look that might wow out to dinner might look as if you're trying too hard at home

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Makeup

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stress about your skin if your date is over Zoom. They offer a "touch up my appearance" feature to help soften your look and smooth out blemishes. There are also virtual backgrounds you can select if you don't love the look of your home or bedroom.

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Skin

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light a candle. It'll smell great and help you feel more relaxed. Tip: Stone Candle Bar in California has a great, reasonable selection of eco-friendly coconut wax options.

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Outfit

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Deciding what to share and what to keep for yourself is never an easy task. Some couples open joint bank accounts, while others forego that for financial independence. Material and financial boundaries are commonplace in every relationship.

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Your Right to Your Material Possessions

Dating Tips for Finding the Right Person