As technology becomes more widespread, the probability of meeting someone online and developing a relationship with that person becomes high. The odds of that person living several miles away is high too, unless you are using something like Tinder. As someone who has several friends across the country, and has been in a long-distance relationship with my boyfriend before moving much closer to him. I have some advice on how to maintain those relationships, this can also be applied to short-distance relationships as well.
- Patience is a Virtue
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Someone that lives far away from you may not always have the time to text you every 30 minutes. They may be busy with personal responsibilities or may need alone time. Besides that, a strong eagerness to meet may lead to issues if you’re too impatient. If this person really cares about you, they will wait for you, and so should you.
- Trust is Everything
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As mentioned before, personal work and needs may prevent immediate communication. My boyfriend tended to get busy for hours due to school clinicals for nurse training. If someone doesn’t text back immediately or doesn’t answer a call, they are most likely busy. Do not jump to conclusions, let them be. They will come back to you soon.
- Communication is Key
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This does not mean that you have to hold a long conversation with that person every hour of the day. This just means that if you want certain things or have issues with something from the relationship, speak up. If you want more attention, let them know. However, keep in mind what is doable for them too. Talk and compromise so both of you can get the most out of the relationship.
- Put in the Effort
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Setting up specific times to enjoy each other’s company, even from afar will help maintain that connection. Sending each other care packages or sending them food delivery where they live occasionally is incredibly nice too. This may require you to take initiative. On the other hand, they should take initiative too. Relationships take work, no matter the miles apart.
The best rule for any relationship is that if someone genuinely cares about you and wants to be with you, they will show it. Long-distance can be difficult, but when both parties work hard equally to maintain it, it can be something truly special.