“Wow, a long distance relationship sounds so fun!” said no one ever. It’s tough being apart from your sweetheart. I’ve spent some time in a long distance relationship, and let me tell you. It’s not easy. But I’ve learned a lot about what a strong, healthy relationship looks like. Here are 5 things I’ve learned from my experiences:
1. Patience
The two of you are on different schedules and maybe different time zones. When your significant other doesn’t text back immediately, don’t panic! In a long distance relationship, you learn the importance of patience when communicating. Be understanding, and don’t assume the worst if you haven’t heard from him or her in a long time. Wait patiently, and know that he or she is thinking of you. Remember that you’ll see your boo soon enough, and it’ll all be okay!
2. Trust
This is huge. Because you aren’t together all the time, it can be easy to wonder or assume that he or she is talking to other people or has feelings for someone else. It’s a scary thought! It’s essential to establish trust with each other so you can be apart without worry. When you feel confident that he or she won’t cheat, then you can enjoy your relationship to the fullest. A way to stay on his or her mind is to remind your honey of the wonderful times you’ve had together. This helps the two of you remember how great you are together, and that there’s no need to find someone else!
3. Appreciate Time Together
In a long distance relationship, you’ll quickly learn how to appreciate every moment you get to spend together. Because it’s more difficult to be with each other, it makes every hug, dinner date and cuddle session even more special. You learn to never take the person for granted, and to be completely in the moment. All of the days, months, even years that have been counted down become totally worth it when you see bae again. The little things are treasured, and you learn the importance of sometimes just sitting and being with each other.
4. Friends Are Important
This one is often overlooked, but it’s important to have friends near you. Times without your darling can be sad and lonely if you have too much free time. Spending time with friends and keeping busy is essential to avoid wallowing in a pit of sadness. It’ll help you stay positive and happy so you aren’t staring at the calendar 24/7. Keep people who care about you close. An extra bonus is if you have a friend who is also in a long-distance relationship. Then you two can share in the struggle, and gush about your loves when everyone else is tired of hearing about it. Unless you’ve experienced it before, it’s hard to really know what long distance relationships are like. Surround yourself with caring people who can empathize with you, or even relate to you on a personal level.
5. It’s Worth It
Sometimes it seems hopeless. You haven’t held your sweet pea close in months. You may start to wonder if it’s even worth it. If you have a strong relationship that you’re willing to fight for, then let me tell you something. It’s worth it. It’s worth the wait, the long drives, the layovers in airports, the late night phone calls and the “I miss you's." The moment you see him or her again, it all comes rushing back to you and you remember just how great your relationship is. Stay strong, and know that someday the distance between you will disappear.
My ultimate advice – persevere. It’s tough, I know. But with patience, trust, appreciation and friends, it’s all worth it.
“And above all these virtues put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.”
Colossians 3:14
