Although there were many nights of tears and awkward silences, we learned more than we could have ever imagined within the first semester of being apart. If you’re struggling with a long distance relationship too, I hope this can encourage you. And remember, you’re not alone.

1. Your significant other is your cheerleader, but not your emotional punching bag.

Let’s face it, long distance relationships are an emotional rollercoaster. Trying to keep your significant other at the center of your life when you are living two completely separate lives can feel nearly impossible. When you are feeling hopeless, it’s easy to dump all of your fears and doubts on your significant other, but remember they are struggling with this too! Be honest with your emotions, but find a friend you can go to who will talk through things with you and help calm you down. That way you avoid putting too much emotional stress on your boyfriend/girlfriend and can STAY POSITIVE! Which leads me to my next point… can you guess what it is?

2. Stay positive!

If you’ve committed to a long distance relationship, you are obviously in it for the long run with this person. Sometimes you’re gonna have “bad nights," nights where you can’t find anything to talk about and you feel like you’re at a dead end. Do not let these nights defeat you! You’ve come too far and worked too hard. Talk about your favorite memories together, send old pictures to each other and remember why you decided to face the challenges of a long-distance relationship. Even talk about the future and what your dreams are. Never forget that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.

3. There is such thing as too much talking.

Your initial solution for long distance will most likely be “We’ll talk every day!” or “I’ll facetime you every night!” but be aware that this could be your downfall. Don’t get me wrong, communication is everything. Howver, communication in moderation is the real key to success. Should you talk often? Yes, but not 24/7. The more you talk the faster you’ll run out of things to talk about, and you will quickly realize how far away you actually are from each other. Another issue you can run into is this: if you’re hauled up in your dorm talking to your significant other all day, chances are you’ll miss out on good times with the people around you. College is a time to make experiences and memories, be present with where you are! Make memories that you can’t wait to call your special person and tell them all about it.

4. Remember this isn’t forever.

If you’ve decided to commit to long distance, you can obviously see yourself being with the person for the long-haul. The biggest sense of hope you should hold onto is that this won’t last forever! There is always a reunion day to look forward to, and before you know it this will be over for good. Stop and smell the roses, there are so many strengths that I believe you can only gain through long distance. Take the good with the bad and find the good in every small moment. While you are living life apart take time to build new friendships, focus on yourself, and experience life to the fullest!

5. Be grateful you’ve found someone who’s worth the struggle.

I hope that even on your worst night apart from your significant other, you don’t forget how amazing it is that you found someone who is worth the struggle, and willing to struggle for you. Most of the time, your attitude is based off of your perspective. If you start to get frustrated at your situation, or maybe your boyfriend/girlfriend is not giving you what you needed emotionally- DON’T PANIC! Speak your mind, this person has laid down the perks of a normal relationship because they want to be with you and you alone. How cool is that?! Love and appreciate each other for the sacrifices you each make day in and day out, and don’t give up.