Relationships, whether they are with friends or family members, require effort. A healthy relationship consists of an equal balance of communication and effort between two people. However, life can sometimes get in the way and restrict us from communicating constantly with the people in our lives. Nevertheless, it is important for us to make time to talk to the significant people in our lives and keep them updated no matter how busy we may be.

I am dealing with this issue myself since I am currently studying abroad in Madrid for the semester. Before I left for Madrid, I found it easy to keep in touch and hangout with my friends since we lived close to each other. Now that I am in Europe, I find myself having to keep in touch with my family and friends from home, camp, and college while making sure that I am getting the most out of my study abroad experience. Due to the 6+ time difference, it has been hard sometimes to plan Facetime/phone calls at a time when it is convenient for my friends and family. I've realized that in order to keep in touch with them, I needed to make an extra effort and find time in my busy schedule to talk to them.

Despite some challenges, staying in touch with friends and family doesn't have to be hard. While it is important to enjoy your time abroad and make new friends, you should never forget about the people who have shaped you into the person you are today. We should not take these people for granted in our lives. A simple text or call can make a friend or family member's day. This shows that you care about him/her and that the person is a priority in your life. Long-distance relationships aren't always easy, but they can work if you are dedicated to putting in time and effort into the relationship.