Distance sucks. There’s no way around it at all. Right now, I’m in a long distance relationship with my boyfriend who is just about to finish basic training in Oklahoma and will leave for Missouri after that for National Guard training until late March.

Having just seen each other for the first time since August, we know how important it is to cherish the time that we get to have together. If you’re in a similar situation, here is a list of ways to stay positive (from personal experience).

1. Look through old pictures.

Looking back on some of my favorite memories is something that lets me know that even though we might be apart right now, there will be plenty of opportunities to make more in the future.

2. Keep yourself busy.

One thing that really helps me keep my mind from dwelling on negative thoughts is making sure that I have a lot on my plate schedule-wise. I’m not saying get involved in so many things that you cannot breathe, but do enough to keep yourself occupied. Having fun and doing what you love is important!

3. Motivate each other.

Being far apart means being extra supportive for each other. You both have aspirations and dreams, which may even be the reason you are apart from each other in the first place. Cheer them on, no matter what goals they have in mind. While you might not be there physically, let each other know that you are always by their side.

4. Stay updated on each other's lives.

If you have not always been a long distance couple, you might have been with them everyday once upon a time. If you are not able to do that right now, ask each other how your days have been. Keep up on important things that are happening. Making sure to include funny details can make it seem like you are not so far apart. Devote some time amid your busy schedules to FaceTime and talk on the phone too.

5. Surround yourself with people who love and care about you.

It is not always going to be easy. Chances are you are not going to be cheery 100 percent of the time. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, but it also leaves you with a temporary feeling of longing. Hang out with your friends and family as much as possible. Laugh, have fun, and look at the bright side of life instead of what you can’t change.

6. Remember to stay focused.

Obviously, you are going to be missing your significant other a lot. Regardless, one of the most important things to keep in mind is to stay focused on yourself and what makes you happy. You know yourself better than anyone else, so make sure that you are okay before worrying or stressing out too much.

7. When you are together, make every second count.

Cell phones and social media have a tendency to take over our attention spans, whether we realize it or not. When you actually are with each other, set the cell phones aside and put them on silent -- the cell phones will be there every day, but your significant other won’t be.

8. Count the days.

Remember, you aren’t going to be apart from each other forever. Maybe not today and maybe not tomorrow, but sometime in the future you'll be together. Look forward to the day that you are reunited with your loved one, and think of the sparkle that you’ll get in your eyes when you’re with each other once again.