There is no substitute for waking up next to a loved one and sharing everyday situations, but sometimes circumstances keep loved ones apart, whether it’s due to work or family commitments.
Long-distance relationships can be very difficult, regardless of the distance. However, with today’s technology and a little creativity, you can still make your relationship fun and fulfilling.
In fact, the amount of time you spend bonding can lead to a new dimension of the relationship. Is there anything better than the moment you can finally see each other again?
Here are a few tips on how to maintain a long-distance relationship:
1. Communicate
No matter how boring your day may seem to you, share it with your partner. It’s Saturday night, and you’re staying home with a glass of wine? Tell them. Went to work? Make it into a funny story. Show your new skills. The little things make the day, and your better half is also interested in it.
2. Take advantage of modern technology
Send voice messages. The intimacy of hearing your partner’s voice can be reassuring. Often the sound of a loved one’s voice is enough to get you through the day.
Make the most of the video call option. Talk over a video call and watch your partner’s reaction as you talk about something you’re passionate about. Enjoy each other’s presence.
3. Find ways to show your partner how much you love them
You may not be physically together, but that doesn’t mean you’re not in each other’s minds. Find a way to brighten your partner’s day and surprise him. For example, send him (or her) a package of favorite snacks, a book, or a video game.
4. Follow common interests, even if it means pursuing them separately
If there is a movie on the program that you both want to watch, watch it separately. Then contact your partner and share your opinions. Arrange a time to read a book or series of books at the same time while staying apart. Take some interesting courses. Make art together. When you find a shared hobby, you’ll always have something interesting to talk about.
5. Talk about your future together
Set goals together. Talk about work, lifestyle, going out, and plans. Build a strong relationship, regardless of whether you are right next to each other or separated at the moment.
Talk about the prospect of living together and how you will get there. Talking candidly about your plan to reunite can be a source of excitement for both parties.
6. Give a part of yourself
Give something personal to your loved one. A pendant, a scarf, or a picture from your childhood. Write letters or postcards. That will provide comfort on cold days and the joy that will make you remember your special person every time you see it.
7. Have confidence and avoid jealousy
One of the easiest ways to destroy a completely healthy relationship is to poison it with jealousy and drama. In honest relationships, doubts, and concerns about fidelity do not remain in the air. It is natural for your partner to have a social life, and you should have one too. Sure, you need to keep your eyes open, but being suspicious is very unhealthy for a relationship. You both need to have a social life with activities and be happy within yourself.
8. Be positive
A positive attitude is essential to maintaining a long-distance relationship. Being away from your loved one is not the end of the world.
Don’t forget to use the time to focus on yourself too. Pursue interests and hobbies, or focus on career advancement. As long as you look at a long-distance relationship as temporary and look forward to the future, you and your partner will be satisfied.
Someone once said: “If you want to live together, you first need to learn how to live apart.” However, great relationships don’t get by on only luck. A long-distance relationship involves both risk and sacrifice. With the help of an experienced therapist, you can get help focusing on the positive things and make your long-distance relationship top priority. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I’d love to help you and your partner work on solutions to make your relationship even better.
If you have any questions, please feel free to message me at meegan@stillwaterscounsel.com or schedule a free consultation with me on my booking page.
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