From travel expenses to mismatched time zones,long-distance relationships can be a challenge.

Most importantly, don’t wait to express your feelings.

Assuming all goes according to plan, you’ll emerge from the time spent living apart stronger than before.

couple embracing outside

Meanwhile, short-distance relationships, the opposite end of the spectrum, present issues of their own.

They may result in an over-reliance on one another, a lack of personal space, or even boredom.

Here, the solution lies in finding fulfillment outside of the relationship.

woman stuck in traffic

In other words, it’s important to maintain a sense of independence.

There are drawbacks at every distance, and mid-distance romances are no exception.

If you find yourself existing in this very specific in-between stage, here’s how to make it work.

woman smiling at phone

Most weekends, you’ll probably find yourself packing up two days worth of clothes and hitting the road.

It’s a phenomenon pervasive enough to warrant a popularTikTokhashtag, #mediumdistancerelationship.

To make this awkward amount of distance work, compromise is usually key.

However, this isn’t always possible.

Maybe only one of you has means of transportation, or maybe a roommate has objections to overnight visitors.

Whether emotional or physical, equally dividing labor within a relationship is essential.

For many, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

For some, that could mean regular texting, others might prefer a mid-week FaceTime between weekend visits.

“That way you feel like you’ve connected at the beginning and end of your days.

When it comes to video communication, think outside the box.

After time apart, spending a weekend together will be all the more meaningful.