Long Distance Relationships: How to Make it Work
I remember when senior year of high school rolled around and we all started talking about our inevitable future: everyone would soon be going different directions. We were so happy in our little bubble, and we didn’t want that to change, but we were thrilled to start our new lives. I started dating Leo in the middle of my senior year of high school, and we had been hanging out for a while before that. I had never pictured myself falling in love in high school, much less deciding to do long distance afterwards. When college rolled around we had been dating for just over six months and trying to let go was horrible. After a couple weeks of college we both knew we didn’t want to break up, so we began long distance. It has been hard for sure, but it is so so worth it when your partner is incredible. I have been doing long distance for ten months and want to share some of my advice for anyone thinking about trying long distance or who currently is!
1. Communication is Key
This is true with every relationship, and is the most important part of a long distance relationship. Make time every day (or however much works for you two) to talk to your partner! Tell them when they make you feel upset, and make sure they do the same. It is so easy to misinterpret emotions when you are far apart, and if you aren’t straightforward about how you feel, it can get messy quickly.
2. Trust
Only decide to get on the emotional rollercoaster of a long distance relationship if you really trust your partner. Your heart is in the hands of someone who you won’t be near, and you need to trust that they will be loyal! It goes both ways- only commit to long distance if you are willing to be loyal too!
3. Show them you love them!
When Leo went to college, I made him a little care package. I put some of his favorite snacks together and labeled them each with a cute note. I remember he would send me letters that I wasn’t expecting. Whether it be a long text, a letter, a care package, or anything else, show your partner you are thinking of them!
4. Put in the extra time
Long distance is hard, and that will never change. BUT, putting in extra time to make sure you stay truly connected is rewarding. Set aside a night for the two of you to FaceTime and just hangout. Make them feel loved. Tell them about what you are doing each day, and listen to their plans. Try to imagine their world while enjoying being independent and having your own.