I’ve been with my boyfriend since my senior year of high school, and have been in a long-distance relationship with him throughout the three years that I’ve been in college so far. The most difficult year was our freshman year, though, because we both didn’t know what it’d be like and we had no older friends in a long-distance relationship to ask for advice. Well, collegiettes, I’m here for you. Here are some long-distance relationship FAQ’s that I’ve either had myself or have been asked by questioning friends.
What’s it like to be in a long-distance relationship?
As The Onion puts it, a long-distance relationship “Efficiently combines the frustration of being in a relationship with the loneliness of being single.” Well put, Onion, well put. All jokes aside, a long-distance relationship is hard. It’s tough to see other couples being cutesy without getting jealous, and you’ll miss them All. The. Time. It can be lonely and tiring and frustrating, but at the same time, it’s worth it. Getting to see them after months of being away makes you appreciate your partner even more, and it allows your adventures to be that much more special. You gain a new appreciation for them and are still able to help each other through problems (read: Skype). Also, it allows you to value, and even cherish, your alone time without your significant other. It’s hard at first, and can be sucky, but it gets better.
What are some tips to staying together?
Communication and trust are literally the most important things of a relationship, and being in a long-distance relationship has taught me that. If you’re overly jealous or you don’t tell your partner things, your relationship may quickly deteriorate. Also, Skyping or talking on the phone almost every night is the best thing for your relationship. Texting can be so distant and impersonal that it’s best to just see or hear each other as much as possible.
What if you have a fight? What do you do then?
It’s okay to want to have your time alone to not talk to your partner, but make sure not to give them the silent treatment or hold a grudge. Call or Skype them as soon as you can, and just talk it out; you probably don’t see each other enough to justify blocking them out for an entire day and once again, communication is key in a relationship.
Lastly, what are the biggest pros of a relationship?
Clearly, a long-distance relationship isn’t the most ideal situation, but not only do you get to have your healthy space from your partner, you also always have someone to have your back—even if they are hours away. You don’t have to choose between your friends and your partner and although you’ll miss them all the time, you will have many happy memories with your friends when they’re gone as well as with your partner when they’re around you.
If you love them, it’ll all work out; just have faith.
Thumbnail courtesy of Pexels.