The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it a wide variety of unprecedented challenges through which new norms have emerged. From daily mask wearing to forgoing international travel, we all have had to adjust to pandemic-appropriate lifestyles. The ways we maintain our interpersonal relationships have also been altered due to the pandemic and, as a result, a dramatic change has occurred in the dating scene.
Geographically separated by the pandemic, many couples have suddenly found themselves in long-distance relationships. While there is no secret formula that guarantees a successful long-distance relationship, here’s a compilation of some long-distance relationship survival tips that I’ve personally found helpful during the nearly two-year period of long-distance dating in my current relationship:
Communication is Key
Communication is key to any healthy relationship, but it’s particularly important for long-distance dating, as you are unable to physically be with each other and see each other. After establishing the preferred means of communication for your relationship, you should both practice consistent communication to help you and your partner feel more included in each other’s lives. This can be done by letting each other know what your work load for the day looks like or by sending snaps of your meals. Good communication is especially crucial when one or both partners become busy. Rather than not answering calls or texts and then explaining later that you were busy, the more ideal option would be to simply give your partner a heads up about your busy schedule!
Send Each Other Packages
One super effective way to feel more connected with your partner is by sending each other packages. The package can be filled with your respective local goodies, your partner’s favorite snacks, and/or your clothes. I personally find receiving my significant other’s hoodies to be the most meaningful because it’s a tangible reminder of him that’s perfect to cuddle with on stressful or lonely nights.
Spend Time Together Online
Setting aside time to go on online dates or do online activities with your partner can help relieve some of the frustrations you may feel while being in a long-distance relationship. Some online date/activity ideas include:
#1: Playing Video Games or Mobile Games
#2: Watching Movies Through the Share Screen Feature on Zoom
#3: Having FaceTime Study Dates
Build Trust & Respect
Without mutual trust and respect, long-distance dating can feel absolutely miserable. It is extremely important to learn to trust your partner as well as respect that they have a life and responsibilities outside of you. For this to happen, both of you must be considerate of each other even when the other person isn’t present and realistic about the amount of time you keep in touch. It goes without saying that neither partner should be compromising their mental or physical health for the relationship.
Schedule Visits
Make sure to set dates for when you will be able to meet up again if possible. This is beneficial not only for the sake of being able to see each other, but also because once the specific date is set, it becomes something to really look forward to. The reunion countdown helps you maintain a positive attitude as you endure the remaining time apart. I even use an app called TheDayBefore to count down the days I have left until the holidays and breaks when we can be together again.
Although long-distance can get emotionally difficult at times, don’t forget that there are benefits unique to long-distance relationships that make the experience all the more special! For example, I don’t think anything will compare to the excitement and amount of butterflies I feel when the day I’ll be seeing my boyfriend for the first time in months gets close. Additionally, after spending so much time apart, you both learn to deeply appreciate the time you have together. Every moment feels magical.