Long distance relationships can be tricky -- there is no doubt that, at times, things get difficult. However, there are some serious benefits of living so far away from your significant other that make it all worth it in the end.

1. Learning to be independent.

Not having your significant other right next to you every step of the way can help each of you grow as individuals and become independent. There is a mutual understanding that you can, and will, do things on your own when need be.

2. Having time to focus on yourself.

Let's face it -- sometimes it's nice to watch "The Bachelor" without his criticisms, or see the big game with someone who isn't on Instagram the whole time. We all need time to focus on ourselves, and treat ourselves. Whether it be to discover our hobbies, hang with the rest of the guys or just grab a manicure, long distance relationships make this relatively easy to accomplish.

3. Planning visits.

You always have something to look forward to whether you're going to visit them, or vice versa. Planning out the visits is almost as fun as the actual visits themselves - you get to show him/her all your favorites places to eat, things to do, etc. You become an expert planner in no time. Surprise visits are extra exciting, too.

4. Improving your communication skills.

Communication is key to making long distance work. On the phone, it can be hard to interpret what someone really means. You can't rely on body language or facial expressions, so it can get tricky. The good things is, after a while, you'll be so used to texting and phone calls that you'll be a pro at determining what your significant other is actually trying to get across. Oh, and you should thank Steve Jobs -- FaceTime is a lifesaver.

5. Always having someone there for you.

When you don't get to see your significant other that often, you'll realize just how lucky you are to have him/her. It helps to have someone to talk to who is miles away when things get rough at school -- someone who may know absolutely nothing about what you're talking about, but will listen anyways. Sure, they probably won't understand which professor you're complaining about, but they'll still always be there to hear you out.

6. There's always something to talk about.

Since the two of you are living your own independent, completely different lives, chances are there won't be too many lulls in conversation when you get the chance to talk. New things happen every single day. Whether it's an internship opportunity or just the fact that the caf restocked Ben & Jerry's, you get to tell him/her all about it.

7. Even the most routine things become fun when you are together.

This includes grocery shopping, Walmart runs, and ordering takeout.

8. Proving people wrong.

There are always going to be people who tell you that your relationship won't last once you part ways. Years later, it feels pretty nice to disprove that theory and hear people say, "Aw, you two are still together?"

9. Being reunited.

When you finally get to see each other, it's beyond special. It just never gets old, and it's one of the best and happiest feelings in the world.