The COVID-19 pandemic has put a lot of relationships to the test; while some may have pushed through it, others parted ways and realized that long-distance dating was not for them. As much as we depend on technology to get us through our daily lives, our screens could never replace the experiences of physical touch and face-to-face interactions.
I have recently found myself battling the struggles of a long-distance relationship. So, with the help from the Women’s Health Magazine, here are some tips on how to balance a healthy long-distance connection if you’re stressed about making it work.
- Plan Out Your Schedules in Advance.
When we get busy and overwhelmed, it becomes difficult to find time to see our partner. Whether you are planning a visit or organizing a virtual date night, communicate and plan out your schedules accordingly so that you can commit in advance. That way, you won’t be disappointed or stressed when trying to discuss plans. You’ll also have those times to look forward to and won’t be left wondering when you’ll see them next.
- Save Your Breath for Meaningful Conversations.
Being away from your partner for long periods of time might urge you to always want to know what they’re doing. Constantly texting or FaceTiming each other is not the healthiest move for your relationship, because it might start to feel like a chore rather than something you enjoy doing. Chatting when you actually have something to say makes those FaceTime calls or text conversations a lot more valuable and, ultimately, might bring you closer together.
- Be Fun & Creative with Your Date Nights.
Maintaining a meaningful connection is much harder to do from afar. So, be creative with date ideas that are doable over the phone. Whether that’s planning a virtual games night, watching a movie through Netflix Party, or even having a wine night and asking get-to-know-you questions, make sure to swap creative ideas around so that you can both contribute. COVID has taught us that pretty much anything can be held online nowadays, so just because you can’t meet at a restaurant doesn’t mean your date nights can’t be just as fun!
- Exchange Your Belongings (AKA Take Their Sweaters).
Swapping personal belongings like hoodies, t-shirts, or even bracelets can bring you comfort if you’re missing your partner. I stole two of my boyfriend’s hoodies because they’re something I can cuddle with when we’re apart (I’m seriously exposing myself right now). In return, I gave him one of my beaded bracelets. You can also exchange favourite books or Spotify playlists. This gives you both something to chat about and bond over.
- Communicate!!
Most importantly, make sure to always communicate with your partner about how you’re feeling. I can’t stress this enough; trust and communication are the foundations of a healthy relationship, and they go hand-in-hand. It’s very easy to misunderstand text messages. Don’t be afraid to let your partner know that you need more substance when you think they’re being too “dry” or unenthusiastic. Effective communication is reassuring and won’t leave you questioning where their head’s at. Tell them you miss them when you feel it, talk about any off-days you’re experiencing so that they don’t take it personally, and share exciting parts of your day. Vocalizing your feelings prevents misunderstandings that can lead you to jump to conclusions, which is not a healthy habit to maintain.
In the end, you both have to truly want to make it work. There’s no glossing over the fact that long-distance relationships are complicated and require equal amounts of effort from both individuals to be healthy and long-lasting. Just be sure to do your part, and if they aren’t doing theirs, remind yourself that you deserve someone invested and willing to give you their maximum effort.
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