1. Keep Yourself Busy
When they were both living in London, I was used to spending a large portion of my free time with them. But once they moved over 3000 miles away, that wasn't possible anymore. I found starting new hobbies not only kept my mind distracted from how much I missed them but helped me grow as a person. Learn a new instrument, start playing a new sport, immerse yourself in after school clubs! There are so many options - and they end up becoming great stories to share with them!
2. Facetime Is Your New Hangout Spot
Take advantage of the fact that we have access to things like Facetime and Skype! Whether you have an Apple or an Android device, there is an app out there for everyone. Being able to hang out with them, albeit virtually, makes it a little easier to be so far apart.
3. Netflix & Amazon Party Are Ideal Date Nights
Missing those nights where you binge watch movies? Or cuddling up on the sofa whilst watching a rom-com? Although you won't be right next to them, Netflix and Amazon Party allows you to watch something whilst having a message bar on the right so you can communicate with them at the same time! A perfect option for a long-distance date night.
4. Send Letters
The occasional letter/care package is a great way to change things up from just messaging virtually. Receiving a letter from someone makes you feel special and will definitely bring a smile to your face. Plus, it's so much fun to write back!
5. Social Media Can Be The Best And The Worst, Use It Wisely
Using apps such as Snapchat and Instagram are great for communicating and keeping up to date with your long-distance S.O. or friend. But the moment that you use them as a metric for your relationship is the moment they become toxic (that's when I suggest you take a social media detox!). Remember your relationship is much more than what it appears to be on a screen!
6. You Appreciate Time Spent Together Even More
Each day apart makes every second spent together so much more special. Don't take the time you have with your partner or friends for granted. You start to miss the simple things like a hug or holding their hand so next time you see them hug them a little tighter and squeeze their hand a little harder.
7. Don't Feel The Need To Be Constantly Communicating With Them
Just because the distance has changed between you two, doesn't mean you have to make up for it with obsessive communication. That's not saying you should hide anything from them - keep them updated with what's going on in your life. Communication is key to having any type of relationship succeed but don't feel pressured to do it 24/7.
8. Have Fun!
Not a lot of people experience a long-distance relationship in their life, so make the most of it! Learn how to become more independent, allow the distance to strengthen and to test your relationship. It's not always perfect, but it is most definitely worth it.
