Oftentimes, when college students think of long-distance relationships, they think of having to spend time apart from their boyfriend or girlfriend from home during the school year. There are many couples, however, that are in the reversed position; they have a boyfriend or girlfriend at school who they will have to say good-bye to during the summer months.
The survival of summer separation is not difficult to endure if you and your partner are willing to commit. If you are in this position, like myself, you are dreading having to separate for a few months as much as you are dreading your finals looming in the near future. Not only do you have to depart from Hillside paninis, free gym membership at the Plex, and the beautiful BC campus, but you also have to distance yourself from your partner for a few months. Do not fear, though! Here are some ideas in order to survive the summer.
Before you even depart for the summer, make sure that you are both clear on each other’s expectations. Be definite that it’s clear that the “out of sight, out of mind” policy does not apply. Also make sure to share your summer plans with each other so that you feel connected and can plan visits.
Make time for each other. The summer is always fun and full of concerts, beach trips and connecting with old friends, but you have to make time to maintain your closeness in your relationship. Respond to your partner’s texts, calls and emails within a matter of hours, rather than days. Utilize the amazingness of Skype, and even be creative with all your conversations (three months can be long, lonely months without creativity).
Express yourself throughout the summer to feel more connected. Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The Five Love Languages for Singles, says, “It’s important to figure out how to make your long-distance partner feel cherished. This can be done with words. For example, ‘If I were with you, I’d give you a big kiss.'” The relationship expert adds, “Share the day-to-day events going on in each other’s lives. This is all geared to staying so close that when you do get together you won’t have that awkward transition period where you feel like strangers.”
Plan trips to visit each other or take a trip together. Bring your partner to your hometown and show him cool little places you visit, have him meet your parents and friends, and share the comfort of your home with them. Make sure, though, that a trip to you means he gets a trip to him in return. It’s only fair to both commit equally to your relationships and in the effort to see each other. If you have the money, and want a bit more adventure, plan a fun trip somewhere together so you experience new places with someone you love
What I think is most important throughout the summer is to keep the faith. It is obvious that you will miss each other and wish that you were together instead, but harping on the negatives can take a toll on the relationship. With these tips, your reunion back on campus in the fall will be even more intimate. As they say, distance makes the heart grow fonder.
Source:
http://www.askmen.com/dating/heidi_200/218_dating_girl.html#ixzz1st4Hpx5N
Photo Sources:
http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/advice/secrets-behind-great-marriages
http://weheartit.com/entry/6423051
http://blogs.skype.com/play/user-stories/
http://www.someecards.com/thinking-of-you-cards/theres-no-limit-to-how-many