"Absence makes love grow stronger." "Love knows no distance." If you've ever been in a long-distance relationship, you probably know that these expressions are utter nonsense.

Because long-distance relationships are notoriously terrible, the worst! The physical absence of your crush and the changes in your schedule can make texting a nightmare. Plus, you gradually have to deal with the fact that one of you has to move if the relationship is to work.

But it's not all bad. Couples who maintain a long-distance relationship report feeling emotionally closer to their partner than couples who haven't had to deal with distance, according to studies. Tell yourself this every time his or her face freezes on a video call.

However, since we know your challenges well, let us tell you some things you should keep in mind to make the relationship less torturous and more enjoyable for both of you.

Talk regularly, but give each other space.

Talk every day, but don't overdo it. Some days you'll both be busy and that's okay. Don't be fanatical about the time you have to talk on WhatsApp, remember that you have a life of your own.

Pay attention to physical meetings

Make each visit a special occasion. Whether you see each other every week or once a month, having a day on your calendar to go see him/her will give you something to look forward to, especially when the distance becomes overwhelming.

Share even the little stupid things together.

Share the little things that happen to you, that way the other person will feel included. That's life after all, the little things. Everything you would want to share if you were having dinner together in intimacy.

Set expectations and don't be afraid to revisit things.

It's important to understand that absence is a major component of a relationship, not just a minor thing. Long-distance relationships are fraught with risks, but if you prepare yourself for this challenge, you'll feel better. Rethink what it is that keeps you in that city and what keeps you in that relationship. Don't beat yourself up if the distance makes you very unhappy.

Don't be shy about expressing your feelings.

Express your feelings, tell them how much you miss them, how much you wish they were around, to have lunch together. Be strong, it's hard, but you can do it.

^{Source: Women's Health}