Near, Far, Where You Are: How I Handle My Long-Distance Relationship

Long-Distance Relationship: A romantic relationship between two people who live far apart and so are unable to meet on a frequent basis.

When I think of a long-distance relationship, I think of my relationship with my boyfriend. We are two hours apart and not able to see each other every day, as we would love to do. And although I consider our relationship a long-distance relationship, my boyfriend does not see it that way. 

We’re lucky enough to be able to see each other every weekend, as long as we are able, and we would be able to see each other on a weekday… if it weren’t for the total four-hour driving inconvenience in such a short span of time. And in all honesty, missing someone can make you mad and crabby. However, anytime I start to worry or get mad because of the relatively short distance, my boyfriend always says “Distance makes the heart grow fonder.” It’s a cheesy old saying, yet it makes total and complete sense. 

When you think of a long-distance relationship, it can be intimidating. People more often than not think about everything that could possibly go wrong. You seldom hear how long-distance works out but rather that it ruins a relationship. Here are four ways to stay in and be happy in a long-distance relationship that have not personally failed me so far.

1.  Trust

Trust is important in all relationships, but especially long distance ones.It can be hard when you’re not able to see or talk to each other all day, every day, so establishing trust is key. 

2.  Communication

Communication, like trust, is necessary for any relationship. But when you’re hours apart, it is important to let your significant other know if you are going to be out with friends for long periods of time, off to work, etc. 

3.  See each other as often as possible 

Although you may not be able to see them in person whenever you’d like, there are other ways you can see your significant other on a regular basis, such as sending pictures on Snapchat or scheduling weekly Skype or Facetime calls

4.  Be willing to split the travel

It’s not always easy or convenient to see your significant other or for them to be able to travel to you. So try to split the traveling as needed by alternating as much as you can.

Relationships aren’t easy, especially long-distance. But when you really love someone, it doesn’t matter. I wouldn’t change my long-distance relationship until the right time, because as they say, “Distance makes the heart grow fonder.”

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• dating
• long distance relationships
• november
• relationships
• Winona