Being in a long distance relationship is never easy, in fact many couples break up because of it. It is tough being away from the person who is not only your best friend but your boyfriend. I know when college wrapped up and summer hit, I was dreading being apart from my boyfriend. I had to look forward to trips or visits to each other and countdown the long days apart. But even through the good times and the bad long distance taught me a few things.
1. To appreciate the time together
Obviously in long distance, the time together is limited. So whatever time you have together it becomes super special and much appreciated.
2. To be thankful for technology (FaceTime and phone calls)
I have no clue what I would do without face timing him, calling him, snap chatting him, or texting him everyday. I can't imagine being in a LDR without this. Thank you Apple.
3. How to handle miscommunication
One of the problems that comes with communicating over long distances is that there is a lot of room for miscommunication. This is particularly huge over texting. It is hard to gauge what emotion is behind a message and often leaves you thinking. But after being in a long distance relationship you find it much easier to just ask them what they meant and talk it out.
4. The value of patience
At times you find yourself unable to wait any longer to see them or be with them. You are jealous of all your friends who get to spend majority of their time with their boyfriend and you are left feeling alone. The wait never gets easier, but I have learned good things can happen to those who wait.
5. How to be trusting
if you don't trust them, then chances are long distance is going to be tough. It is extremely important to trust 100 percent and keep faith. No one wants to have that overprotective girlfriend calling them a million times when they are with their friends.
6. The importance of planning
if you don't plan to see each other you won't see each other. So planning a visit or a trip or even a day to meet up is important. I have learned to plan my schedule and find free time for when I can go see him.
7. To make sacrifices
It is a huge sacrifice to be apart from the person you love. To make all of these sacrifices gracefully and to support each other when they must make them also are two hugely important aspects of a long distance relationship.
8. Who I am
A long distance relationship has taught me a lot about myself. I have learned how much I can give up and do for one person.I have learned to trust, to be confident, and to be happy.