Yes, they are stressful; yes, they can be the hardest thing you are currently dealing with; yes, no one ever wants one, but Long Distance Relationships happen and are inevitable at some point in time. For many, you met the person before you came to college or moved away from your hometown, so that person holds a special section of your heart and is probably the one who knows you better than anyone else (maybe even your parents). You confide in them and are always thinking about what they’re doing or who they’re with, secretly hoping they are thinking of you too. You know what’s nice, though? They most likely are! If your LDR has lasted this long already, and you are still constantly talking to each other, whether through adorable texts, romantic snail-mail, or even spontaneous skype dates, then you shouldn’t worry. But how can you ensure that this relationship that you have nurtured lasts? A few steps, from my own experience and other friends’, are easy to follow and even bring some spark in the relationship!
1) First and foremost, make sure you both understand and have set “rules” that are clear and concise. Now, this doesn’t mean psycho girlfriend comes out; instead, just make sure that he understands that you would not appreciate it if he was constantly partying with lots of other girls.
2) Do not visit each other every weekend! I know this may sound insane and hard to grasp, but as Tumblr constantly tells us “Distance makes the heart grow fonder”. You both will cherish and appreciate the time you have together if you don’t see each other every weekend. Trust me, those scenes you see in films where the girl drops her luggage and runs and jumps on her boyfriend will become reality for you!
3) Trust. Do I really have to expand much? A relationship is nothing without trust and assurance that your significant other is doing the right thing and making decisions that they would not be ashamed of. Trust them – if they’ve stuck with you this long, they aren’t going to give up on you.
4) Lastly, if the money and costs permit, send care packages with their favorite things or things that remind them of you: you could even make it slightly sexy if you feel it will build the excitement even more! Spritz some perfume on a romantic letter or send 100 “kisses” (Hershey Kisses, that is)!
No matter what, a LDR is worth every moment. Put in the effort and you will be surprised how happy and healthy the relationship is.