Dating is difficult enough, so trying to maintain a long distance relationship can be that much harder. Whether it's a new job, college, military service, or just opportunities that are keeping you apart, keep reading for great tips on how to maintain and sustain long distance dating, engagement or marriage.

Communicate Often

Communication is key. Developing an emotional closeness can be hard work, especially over hundreds or thousands of miles. So, try to stay in touch as much as possible and in as many ways possible. Today, we can text message, instant message, email, write, or call from almost anywhere in the world. So, use those opportunities. Even if it's just a quick note to say "I miss you," those little moments of reaching out are what will hold the two of you together.

Send Gift Packages

Send anything you can in the mail. As wonderful as email and instant messaging is, there's something about that solid, real-life, physical reminder of the other person that can be important. So, try putting together a great care package for your dating partner. Throw in a mix CD, some photos, their favorite chocolates, a pair of clean socks, or a movie that you both love. It doesn't have to be filled with expensive things, just items that remind the two of you of each other.

Use Visual Messages

Seeing each other can be so important to maintaining a long-distance dating relationship. Even just a quick shot of you on the webcam or a picture of you going about your day-to-day chores can be really exciting for the partner that hasn't seen you in weeks or months. Humans are very visual creatures and those visual reminders are really important. There's also a certain reassurance that comes from seeing our loved one, and knowing for sure that they're okay.