Every relationship has seasons.
For those in a long-distance relationship: be it a seasonal job, a spouse serving prison time or living in two locations, overcoming the barrier of distance can be daunting. If you are in this boat, here are a few practical applications to keep your relationship alive.
Talk or text every day
For most busy families, this may be a tall thing to ask, but it’s a crucial part of keeping your relationship strong. I can be tempting to let the days, weeks and months carry us away. It’s important to seize the day to communicate with your significant other, wherever they are in the world. If you are thinking of them, let them know. If your loved one is in prison, it may not be possible to talk on the phone every day. If this is the case, instead write a short letter to them.
Share your day
Whether you are aware of it or not, your significant other wants to know what’s going on in your life. Big or small, act as if your partner is right there with you. Share the big moments and the low ones. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, its essential to the health of your relationship that share these moments in your life with your significant other. Sharing your day shows your partner that you are thinking about them and want to keep them included in your dad-to-day life.
Don’t forget to have fun
Keep it light and fun, don’t just talk about the serious things, flirt with them. Moreover, these light moments can breakdown any awkwardness that time can foster in relationships. Thus. remember why you fell in love with them in the first place?
Share Memories
Recall moments you made together and dream about future memories you want to make with them and your family. The bonds formed throughout your relationship will be the glue that holds you together during the times of separation.
Set Boundaries
Every relationship requires boundaries. Ultimately, these boundaries should be discussed and agreed upon in a way that encourages open and honest conversation. You and your partner should be able to express fears and hopes about this season in your relationship. Whether it is a few days or years, setting boundaries is crucial for your relationship to grow.
Relationships require investment, especially long-distance relationships. If you are in a long-distance relationship, treat today as a brand-new day and face the challenges head-on. Do not allow yourself to give up on someone you care about because you weren’t equipped to sustain it. Ultimately, you are capable of a thriving relationship. The important thing for your relationship is to stoke the flame of love in in your significant other. Regardless of the time or distance, you are capable of making a long-distance relationship work.