Relationships that are long distance are simple to romanticise. Who doesn’t like a tale of mismatched lovers? Unfortunately, they can be less glamorous in reality. Relationships can be hampered by time differences, missed calls, videos that are still buffering, expensive plane tickets, and visa restrictions. The odds of surviving as a couple can seem impossible if there is a pandemic.
Take the Phone
“Maintaining communication is crucial in a long-distance relationship. The best way to stay in touch is by talking on the phone and FaceTiming because so much can be lost in translation when communicating via text “Patel said. Avoid falling into the trap of using texts exclusively throughout your busy day instead of picking up the phone. Make time for lengthy discussions where you can both hear each other’s voices and see each other’s faces.
Talk both during the day and at night.
It’s also crucial to check in in the mornings and the evenings before bed, according to Patel. “In this manner, you experience a sense of connection at the start and end of each day. You will feel like a part of each other’s days even though you are not physically present with each other in this way.
Because you would typically be alone together in the mornings and evenings in a long-distance relationship, those are also the times of day when you might feel the most lonely. Additionally, a lot of emotional issues can arise for us in a single day, so having those check-ins can be comforting. The strength of the relationship is really demonstrated by having that emotional support.
Meet frequently in person
As frequently as you can, see each other, according to Patel. “I know that depending on the distance, it might seem difficult, but it’s crucial.” The aim, according to her, is to meet up in person at least once every three months. If you can arrange to see each other once a month, that would be ideal.Always plan your next excursion
It’s crucial to always be aware of when you will next meet in person. Knowing the exact day you will see each other again will give you both something to look forward to at all times. Knowing exactly how long you have until the next meeting will help you when times are tough.
Visit one another where you both reside
It can be tempting to arrange fun, exciting trips to visit each other when you’re in a long-distance relationship. Alternatively, it might seem sensible to meet halfway between the two places you call home. However, Patel advised that you also pay each other a visit where you both reside. To better understand how each other’s daily lives are managed, she advised making trips to visit each other where you both reside.
Ask each other how they are feeling
Patel advised, “Show your concern and willingness to be there through it all.” Ask things like, “How can I help you?” What do you most urgently require from me at this time? What mood are you in? “These inquiries give the person who is feeling cut off the chance to think about and express what is truly at the core of their feelings and thoughts. It demonstrates concern for the inquirer and clarifies what is most important for them to do in order to reestablish connection and love.”
Put each other first
Since long-distance relationships require work, it’s crucial that both partners are willing to put that work in and prioritise their relationship. When one person stops choosing the other, it is no longer worthwhile, according to Patel. “It’s important to talk things out if someone starts to distance themselves, refuses to commit to plans, or starts to withdraw. Simply put, it’s essential for both parties to experience a sense of priority in whatever ways they find satisfying.”
Keep in Mind the Moments
Whatever method you use to connect, it can be effective. For instance, a FaceTime conversation can be just as meaningful as a dinner date because the other person is physically present. Try to be present in the moment no matter how you are coming together. When you’re in a long-distance relationship, you value and cherish every moment a lot more, according to Patel. Whether you are connecting in person or virtually, that is true.
