When I was deciding on a college a few years ago, I almost decided to stay in Maryland because I could not imagine living in a different state than my best friend. However, I decided to come to New York and had to make our friendship temporarily long distance. This was and still is not easy because having deep conversations is not as easy over the phone as it is face-to-face, and obviously we can’t just hang out and have fun as often as we used to be able to. However, we are still as close as ever and we have found that there are definitely a few things to remember when starting a long distance best friendship.
1. Text each other often
We text so often that the one day in the almost seven years that we’ve been friends we forgot to even text and say hi to each other, we were devastated and realized we had to completely start over. Texting definitely helps to just say hi and quickly catch up with each other’s days without having to give each other a call.
2. Talk about your days with as many details as possible
In order to make it seem like you’re not so far away from each other, it is important to give detailed updates on everything you’re going through. I know I always want it to be exactly like I am there in the situation, so I need every detail.
3. See each other every time you're in the same state
Even if you’re only going to be home for a weekend, make sure you make time for each other. And don’t worry, even if you’ve been away for a long time it will be like you were never apart.
4. Snapchat is important
Even though I have been given a limit on how many snaps I am allowed to send (I send way too many), Snapchat is an important thing for a long distance friendship. Sometimes you just want to see your best friend’s face.
5. Call each other
Even though I hate talking on the phone, if I see I have a call from my friend, I will answer or call back the second that I can. There are certain things that are too much to talk about through a text, and sometimes its just nice to hear each other’s voices.
The same things don’t always work for everyone, but my best friend and I have managed to keep up an amazing long distance friendship by using these steps. I’m so grateful for how close we are even though we are so far apart.
