Given the chance, almost no one would ever choose to be in a long-distance relationship. Of my almost 5 year relationship, more than half of it has been spent apart. My boyfriend and I started dating in the summer between grades 10 and 11, and now, I am finishing my 3rd year of university 5 hours away from our hometown, while he is back home apprenticing as an airplane mechanic.
While is isn’t ideal, it’s our reality, and it isn’t something we can change, as with many other couples in the exact same situation. Here are some tips I’ve picked up whilst navigating my love life, in hopes of making things a little less complicated.
Don’t let your life become separate. Joined a new club? Started a new job? Met a new friend? Started a new series on netflix? Share this with your partner! Whether they’re big or small changes in your life, they definitely add up in the grand scheme. Sure, it may not be intense or mentally stimulating conversation, but they care and want to keep up with your life!
Send photos! Not like that, although you can if you want! Sending photos in lieu of or in addition to texts helps you feel closer with your partner, so they can physically see what you are up to and feel like they’re there with you! Plus if it’s a selfie, this is a chance for them to tell you how wonderful you look ;)
Do things “together”. Although you can’t physically be together, by doing the same thing you can create a connection and opportunity for good conversation! Read the same books, watch the same movie at the same time, start a TV series together, or even going to the gym and motivating each other! It gives you ample opportunity to talk and makes you feel closer to know they’re doing the same thing as you.
Set timelines/dates. Download a countdown app, or write in your planners the next time you get to see them! By having a specific date in mind when you get to see your significant other next, it gives you something to look forward to versus aimlessly wondering when you will be together again. And, don’t be afraid to make it fun! Create mood boards, plan cute dates for when you’re together, and really work out a schedule! The more solid and clear the plans are the more real it becomes and the less daunting the time in between visits feel shorter.
Always say good morning and good night. This is super important. While you can’t fall asleep then wake up next to your significant other, in a way you are still ending and starting off your day with them in your thoughts!
This. Is. Only. Temporary. Remind yourself of this whenever things get tough. And, remind your partner too! At the end of the day, you want to be together for a reason.
Although long distance relationships pose many challenges, they yield a great reward. If your SO is the one, stick it out, I promise that it gets easier.