I am in a long distance relationship and a startup founder. That can be a tough challenge. The secret to making it work is love and the commitment to really do this. To go all the way. She is a beautiful girl living in Dublin in Ireland, which is an 8 hour time zone difference to my place in San Francisco. Working long hours on the job does not make things easier.

One fortunate thing for me is, that my startup is all about relationships. My team and I work on an app for couples to stay connected. It is called Twyxt (http://twyxt.us) So I get to work full time on making relationships better including mine.

I’m so glad that we have found a way to regularly communicate and take part of our lives while being apart AND of course the ability to see each other as much as possible. Even though the distance is far we get to see each other up to 8 times a year for several weeks. We try to avoid gaps of more than 3 months.

Communication is a key role and Twyxt of course helps us a lot to stay connected. The feeling of having our own little space with features that are only made for us help us a lot. I just love testing the app with the most important person in my life. But of course only messaging and Twyxt kissing is not enough. Regular phone calls or (voice communication) are key. I think everyone in an LDR should keep your own little space. Sharing something common and special makes you feel closer and like being in your private space.

In communication it is very important to be part of each others life. Every detail is crucial here. Same as in a regular relationship you should share almost everything. You even have to go beyond what is obvious when living together must be communicated directly. Don’t leave things out. If you enjoyed listening to a special song while brushing your teeth… tell it! The food you eat, the little things that annoyed you and so forth, everything is important. There is always something to share and the minute you are on a call and there is nothing to tell there is a problem. Ah… and one little thing I really like: Always say good morning and good night. Never stop sharing and always communicate ideas and plans as small or big as they might be.

In summary:

• Create your own intimate space
• Daily calls (voice)
• Make time whenever needed
• Never forget anything
• Not only share the big stories, share every detail

Now I have to go call my girlfriend… Give your partner a call now and say what you feel!

What are your secrets for a working long distance relationship? How do you make it? Let me know I’m always up to learn!

You may also read our blog at: http://www.twyxt.us/blog.