For those of you who are experiencing a long distance relationship, are going into one, or know of someone who is in one, there are universal truths to surviving. A long distance relationship can be very tough to live through at times, especially when there is an allotted time to have to get through. There are 5 things to always keep in mind when dealing with long distance with your significant other.
1. Communication is key.
Photo by rawpixel
Long distance is never easy to deal with, but one huge and major factor in keeping the relationship alive is proper communication. Without this, imagine: what kind of relationship would be sustainable? Not very many. Communication is very important so that you're actively keeping up with each other, and you're able to still have the ease of being able to talk on the phone and hear their voice (if this is allowed). Otherwise, texting and snapchat are very much alive in the 21st century, and there are plenty of more ways to keep communication going. Don't let it die off; with this, the relationship is able to work a lot easier.
2. Keep your cool.
Photo by Artem Bali
When you're at a disadvantage such as long distance, there isn't very much that can be done to change the circumstance. Distance is distance. What this means is: you kind of just have to deal with it. There are things to make dealing with it more simple and doable, but ultimately, the distance is unmovable and unable to be ignored. Keeping your separation anxiety at a lower level, and knowing that you'll eventually see your significant other again eventually helps make it a more bearable process.
3. Distract yourself.
Photo by rawpixel
Staying distracted is a great way to keep your mind at ease. Distractions are only temporary, but they can get you through long distance times. Easy ways to stay distracted include: getting a part-time job (which is even better because you're making money), stress coloring, writing an article (*waves*), going out with some of your friends, watching your favorite T.V. show or movie, or playing a game of some sort. There is virtually any way to distract yourself, so go ahead and do it. You'll feel a lot less sucky throughout each day.
4. Keep your distance (punny, amirite?)
Photo by Christin Hume
As important as it is to keep in touch with your partner, it is equally as important to give them the proper amount of space that they need for themselves. This means that it is a bad idea to be clinging to them all of the time, and it's not healthy to constantly need to know where they are, what they're doing, etc. This can become an issue if it goes unnoticed. Know your boundaries as a couple, and understand each other and what the other needs as far as personal space goes. It makes the relationship more enjoyable without all of the messiness.
5. Don't lose hope.
Photo by Ben White
One thing that can really bug someone is feeling defeated, or as if the relationship is going to die off. Losing faith in a long distance relationship is the ultimate let down, and is a primary reason as to why relationships don't make it all the way through. It's important to remember that long distance can become difficult and at times, can seem unbearable. This is normal, but don't jump to conclusions. It cannot be stressed how important this is because both people must have faith and commitment for it to work on both ends. Keep your faith, stay confident, and take every new day as a day closer to the end of the distance journey.
As someone who has experience with a long distance relationship and has had some practice, I can very confidently tell anyone who needs to hear it that the distance is worth it. It will eventually come to an end and will be worth the wait. Long distance relationships are one of those things that never gets easier, but it can be made easier with lots of different creative ideas. It CAN be done. Good luck.
