Whether it’s because of this pandemic or entering a new stage of your life with grad school or a full-time position in a different state, there are many concerns that can arise with long-distance relationships. Feelings of anxiety or fear for the future of your relationship can begin to tear you apart. Even though long-distance can get very tough sometimes, it is important to remember simple ways to make the distance apart more bearable. Practicing these habits can help ensure the longevity of your relationship.
1. Remind your partner how much you care for them every day.
If you are at the “I love you” stage, make sure to say it every day to your partner. It is so easy to get caught up into trying not to be “too much” with your partner. Never hesitate to be completely honest and emotional. If you express your love for them every day, they will also be more inclined to do so with you. Make sure to also keep your partner updated on where your feelings are at with them. If your feelings are starting to progress, let them know so that they are able to let their walls down more easily as well and can progress their feelings with you. Try not to take offense if they aren’t exactly there yet either. Everyone is different and has had different pasts that affect their progression of feelings in a relationship. Simply give them time and try to be patient as they get there with you.
2. Schedule times to either call or FaceTime with one another.
Try to FaceTime more often than calling. It is very important to be able to visibly see one another when talking to each other. This will help lessen the chances of miscommunication while also help with missing one another. Don’t just leave FaceTiming each other to whenever you both have time. With busy lives, chances are you will have a hard time finding a time that works for both of you very often. Set aside time that works for both of you in advance so that you can make sure that you will call often and will also have something exciting to look forward to. Try to make this into a routine that works for both of you. And always remember to be considerate of each other’s time and schedules!
3. Keep surprising one another as much as possible.
Make sure you are keeping the excitement in your relationship by surprising them every once in a while. Either it’s with gifts sent to one another, writing romantic letters, planning an event for the future, or simply sending a loving and long message, your partner will feel very lucky to have someone who is always thinking of them. If possible, try surprise visiting them as well!
4. If the distance is getting difficult for you, let your partner know.
There are many benefits to keeping your partner updated with how you feel, even if it isn’t a positive feeling and something hard to say. If the distance starts getting difficult, make sure to express this concern to your partner. They might also be struggling with it too. Being able to talk and work it out with each other is very healthy. Bottling up your feelings can only lead to releasing an overwhelming amount of information on your partner at once. This can lead them to feel blind sighted in the relationship. You can always work to compromise or think of solutions with one another if you are constantly communicating your feelings with them.
5. Always meet your partner halfway with effort.
A healthy relationship requires 50/50 effort on you and your partner’s part. Make sure you are reciprocating as much as possible whenever you can. Think of creative ways to make your partner feel loved and thought of. If your partner is not meeting you halfway with their actions and words, let them know as soon as possible so that you can work towards fixing it. Make sure to never start taking one another for granted.