I think out of the whole English language, everyone can agree that the three words that hit the heart the hardest are “long”, “distance”, and “relationship”; especially when they are organized in that particular order. They become the biggest fear for any couple, and the proudest accomplishment for most successful couples. Yet regardless of the person, it’s hard as heck.
See, I don’t know about you, but I’ve never met anyone who prefers being in a long distance relationship with their significant other. Nor have I ever met anyone who was sad upon reuniting with their loved one. It isn’t a secret that people generally want to spend as much time with the one they love as possible. Yet long distance relationships are extremely common, and instead of dreading them, it’s time to look for the positive to make whatever time that is spent apart, a little more bearable.
First, let’s define “long distance”. I say that it’s any distance that makes seeing each other/being together harder than usual. For example, I live close to an hour away from my boyfriend. While technically in the same city, it still makes seeing each other hard. Others might disagree, thinking that long distance means far enough that seeing each other is rarity, but for simplicity sake, let’s agree that each relationship can define “long distance” in the way that suits them best.
Now, let’s push the negative thoughts out of our mind. No need to be paranoid about what your partner is doing when you’re not there. You love and trust them, remember? No need to think about time spent alone. You have your own interests and hobbies, right? No need to focus on the time apart, but instead plan for future dates and visits to look forward to!
When in a long distance relationship, emotions run wild, so let’s have some fun with them instead. Use this time of instability to channel your love for your partner and focus on why they make you so happy. Make sure to let them know when they’re on your mind (all the time, duh!). Try new things, such as writing letters, to help pass the time, and don’t underestimate the power of a FaceTime call, be it 10 minutes, or 3 hours.
The time apart can be brutal, I am fully aware, but by viewing each situation as a positive, you will live a much better life. Trust me, if you two love each other, I have faith you’ll be able to survive this bump in the road. Distance truly does make the heart grow fonder, and being reunited will feel so good. Just remember that even if you can only see each other once a week, once a month, or even once a year, you have someone close to you going through the exact same thing, and they will always be able to sympathize with you.
Now go forth and take your relationship by storm, because you are absolutely going to crush it.