With different colleges, states, and goals--here are 10 ways to make your long-distance relationship work.*
*All relationships are different, these are the 10 ways that worked best for myself.
1. Communication
Set up scheduled times to Skype or call each other. Even if you have nothing to talk about, ask them to go through their day and listen to the stories they have to tell.
2. Visits
Whether you think you'll visit them or not, odds are you will find yourself on an unfamiliar bus or train to see them at some point. These visits can be a surprise, or planned, but either way it feels great to finally see them again.
3. Snail-mail
Know your partner's address and send them cute care-packages, or even just a letter to let them know you're thinking about them. Paper mail shows that you care enough to put in tie and effort.
4. Trust
While it's scary to know that your significant other is miles away and surrounded by some usually good looking people, it will cause nothing but anxiety to think that they would betray you. Have trust in yourself and your partner to avoid over-thinking.
5. Mistakes happen, be understanding
No, you should not be okay with your partner repeatedly cheating or talking to other people, but sometimes there will be a missed call or an unanswered snap chat. It's important to understand that life happens and that your relationship won't be perfect.
6. Expect the unexpected
A 2 am phone call crying or a random "I miss you" text will happen. Sometimes you'll need each other at an inconvenient time, but it's important to be there for each other. You can't skip class everyday to visit each other, but certain circumstances call for a quick train ride.
7. Support
Showing and receiving support in your endeavors creates a stronger bond in the relationship. Take time to acknowledge the hard-work your partner puts in, and expect the same support back.
8. Holiday breaks will be your best friend
As soon as the academic calendar year is released, compare break dates. Use your break to see family, but also to reconnect with your partner. Spending quality time together helps to reassure that your relationship is strong enough for distance again.
9. Listening skills
For myself especially, listening and not talking back can be extremely difficult to do, but sometimes all your partner needs is to be heard. Poor test grades or just a rough day can be soothed just by listening and understanding your significant other's concerns.
10. Love each other
Even though many people make long-distance relationships seem like a lot of work, and at times they can be difficult, your relationship will do just fine over distance if you both love each other. yes it requires some more work, like scheduling or travel time, but ultimately the relationship does not change over distance.
