When the person you care about is miles away, it’s natural to miss them deeply and wish they were closer.

You might feel lonely at times or worry about drifting apart. Communication can become harder, and misunderstandings may arise more easily. But remember, many couples have done this and successeeded, so you can too.

Distance doesn’t have to stand in the way of your love. With effort, understanding, and creativity, you can keep your connection strong and even grow closer over time.

Here are five practical ways to help you and your partner stay connected, strengthen your bond, and make your relationship flourish, even when you’re far apart. These tips are designed to help you overcome common challenges and bring joy to your relationship.

1. Communicate regularly but meaningfully

Staying in touch is essential, but it’s not just about the number of messages you send. Focus on quality over quantity. Share your thoughts, feelings, and daily experiences openly. Ask about your partner’s day and truly listen to their responses. Use video calls to see each other’s faces and hear each other’s voices. This helps you feel closer and more connected.

2. Set clear expectations and boundaries

It’s important to talk openly about what you both expect from the relationship. Discuss how often you’ll communicate when you’ll visit each other, and what your future plans might be. Setting clear boundaries helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures you’re both on the same page. Be honest about your needs and listen to your partner’s needs as well. This mutual understanding builds trust and reduces anxiety.

3. Plan activities to do together

Just because you’re apart doesn’t mean you can’t share experiences. Plan activities that you can do at the same time, like watching a movie or cooking the same meal. You can also play online games together. Sharing these moments makes you feel connected and gives you something to look forward to. It also creates new memories that you both can cherish.

4. Send personal and thoughtful gifts

Surprising your partner with a small gift can brighten their day and show that you’re thinking of them. It doesn’t have to be expensive—a handwritten letter, a playlist of songs that remind you of them, or a care package with their favourite snacks can mean a lot. These gestures add a personal touch that text messages can’t always convey. They help keep the romance alive and make the distance feel a little smaller.

5. Stay positive and supportive

Maintaining a positive attitude can make a big difference. It’s normal to feel down sometimes, but focusing on the good aspects of your relationship helps you cope with the distance. Encourage each other and celebrate your successes together. Be there for each other during tough times.

Sola Sobowale, the ace Nollywood actress, has announced the engagement of Mide, her daughter.

The film star took to her Instagram page on Wednesday to share loved-up photos of Mide and her partner.

Sobowale expressed her “overwhelming joy” while describing her daughter’s fiance as a “wonderful and inspiring” man.

“My baby found her forever person. My heart is overwhelmed with joy,” she wrote.

“I have gained a son—a wonderful, inspiring young man. All the glory be to God. I love you both.”

On her part, Mide also shared the same photos with an accompanying caption that read “us till infinity”.

In the post’s comment section, several celebrities and fans congratulated the soon-to-be couple.

Former Barcelona star Gerard Pique has addressed claims made by his ex-partner, Shakira, in a rare interview over two years after their high-profile split.

Shakira, 47, announced the end of their 11-year relationship in June 2022, amid rumors of Pique’s infidelity.

Since their breakup, the Colombian singer has made several public digs at Pique, even referring to him as “Voldemort” in her music.

Pique, now 37, has since moved on with 25-year-old Clara Chia Marti and insists he is content despite Shakira’s remarks, which have also targeted Marti.

In an interview with CNN, via AS, Pique hinted that the public narrative around their breakup has been skewed. “In the end, the truth or what happens or occurs is not told in the way it was. I cannot control this,” he said.

Pique went on to express his happiness and gratitude for the support he receives from his close circle.

“The best thing is that in the end, I am surrounded by my loved ones, my family, my friends, the people who really know you. They know what you are like and what you do, and that gives me a lot of peace of mind.”

Reflecting on his current life, Pique shared, “I am very happy, I have a great time, and I feel privileged. The life I have had, being able to play for the club of my life for more than twenty years, wonderful children, an incredible family, lifelong friends, those from school that I still have.”

Pique and Shakira had two sons together, Milan, 11, and Sasha, nine.