Relationships are hard work, but there are times when the universe just wants to get us tested and we end up dealing with more challenges than we ever expected. It’s hard when you finally find someone you love and adore but they end up needing to move away because of circumstances. Sometimes it’s a good career move, other times it’s a family matter, but whatever it is, there are just some things that you cannot let your partner miss out on and you have to be supportive of.
While it’s hard to deal with working on a relationship while you are miles away, it’s definitely not impossible and there are couples who were truly able to surpass this difficult time. We rounded out some tips on how you can cope in a long-distance relationship — and stay sane along the way.
Sync up your schedules
Quality time is always an important aspect of relationships, and distance shouldn’t take that away from you. Share schedules with each other and make time for a quick video call over Skype or FaceTime. This way, you are sure that you get that much-needed catch-up and you wouldn’t be second-guessing if your partner is awake or available when you plan on calling.
Talk about your goals and plans
Having a plan for the future and knowing each other’s goals will help you have something to look forward to when things get rough. Whether it’s knowing when your partner is moving back or just having an idea of how you can make this work for the long haul will be a helpful reminder especially during trying times.
Visit each other
Sure, it’s not going to be easy especially if you are thousands miles apart, but it’s important that you put in the effort to see each other even if that means it’s just once a year. Whether you plan to meet halfway across the globe, or take turns in visiting every year, it’s important that you plan this together and agree that you will still see one another. Technology helps to keep you connected but nothing beats being with each other physically.
Communicate
Being able to communicate with each other is necessary for a relationship, whether you’re in an LDR or not. Be open to each other and make sure to talk about things, mundane or otherwise. If you are having issues or facing something challenging, let your partner know. Got a promotion and would love to share it with your partner? Send them a quick e-mail to just update them on what’s up. Communication is vital and it’s most especially needed when you are across the globe from each other.
Learn to enjoy the distance
This doesn’t mean that you get to fool around while your partner is away. What it just means is that you have to relax and fill in the days with things that bring you joy. Sure, being with your partner makes you happy, but with your situation, the best thing that you can do is to support them and be happy for them. And while you do that, you can also focus on rediscovering yourself, pick up hobbies and reignite old passions that you may no longer have the time for. They say that you can better love someone when you love yourself, so take this time to be better at that, too.
