Long-distance relationships can be rough, no doubt about it. Your first time dealing with your significant other being away from you, for even just a few days, can sometimes feel like enough to break your sanity. Because of this, I do understand why some people will just try to stay away from these relationships all together. Long distance-relationships simply aren't for everyone—and that's OK! But from someone who has been in a pretty intense one for a year now, I can honestly say that the few weeks of despair without your special someone is completely worth the moment when you're reunited. When you are finally able to see your significant other again—nothing compares. These relationships have the potential to teach you a lot, and give you some awesome experiences along the way.

1. You learn patience

2. Communication is MAJOR Key

3. Even having a few minutes with someone can change everything

4. You get really good at navigating traveling websites

5. Your significant other will most likely turn into your best friend with the amount of snapchats and texts you send each other

6. It's a big moment when you finally get to meet the parents

7. The goodbyes are 10 times harder

8. But the reunions are 20 times more amazing

9. You'll be able to travel more—with your love!

10. You'll feel more connected, strangely

11. Overall, there are just over seven million couples (14-15 million individuals) in the U.S. who consider themselves in a long-distance relationship. So you're not alone!

There you have it, some incredible things I've learned and gone through while being in a long-distance relationship. I'm not saying it's easy; its definitely not. But in the end, these types of relationships have the potential to help you grow and strengthen your relationship with your partner.