I’m sure you’ve heard the quote, “absence makes the heart grow fonder,” however it doesn’t always feel that way. If you’re struggling through a long-distance relationship, check out these tips to make the distance seem irrelevant.
Tip #1: Make Time
Time-zones, different colleges and even a few hours away can be difficult. Find time for “facetime/skype dates” whether it be just a couple times a week. Talking on the phone and hearing their voice will always make you feel close to them again. It is EXTREMELY important to give each other your schedules, that way you will always know what times they will be busy and you can set a time for each other. My boyfriend and I both love having “movie dates” over the phone, it is an easy way to make the other person feel apart of your day.
Tip #2: Don’t Dwell
You need to remember you will still love them just the same as you did, or even more, when you see them again. Don’t dwell on the negatives, think of how much stronger your relationship will be when it is all over. Focus on the exciting things you will do when you do get to spend time together. I know it is hard, but at the end of the day the same struggles you’re going through, most likely your partner is too. So, make sure you are there for them as well.
Tip #3: Have the Same Goals
Be realistic, you would not be going through this for someone that you couldn’t picture yourself with in the end. Talk about your future wants, goals, hopes and dreams. Make goals as a couple, have dreams together, get excited for the future! Be supportive, make the other person know how much they make you proud. Help their ambitions become reality and push them to be the best they can be.
Tip #4: Be Proactive
Everyone is guilty of overthinking and stressing too much on things they cannot control, so keep yourself busy. Work hard for the both of you! Make your family proud show everyone all the things you can accomplish. Use this time to find a hobby, go to the gym, join a club or even just try meeting new people! Find yourself, make “me time” and most importantly don’t forget to live.
Tip #5: Give Them a Piece of You
As cheesy as this might sound, having a piece of their clothing or even a stuffed animal from them is the simplest reminder of how much they mean to you. Having something to hold every night is comforting. Nothing is cozier than someone else’s hoodies, wear them to sleep or even to class! Surprise them with a handwritten letter, or if you can, care packages are the CUTEST way to show how much you care. Go out of your way to do something sweet for them, find a way to make them feel special. Don’t forget to show them how much you love them.
All in all, if someone is truly that important to you, it will work out just fine.