The Ultimate Long Distance Survival Guide
The holiday season is full of excitement and reunions, but for those with significant others at Elon, it also means saying goodbye for a few weeks. For those with S/Os who don’t go to Elon, it means finally getting to spend time together. Regardless of the situation, LDRs can be challenging. Luckily, you aren’t going through it alone, and we’ve got a list of tips to make your time apart easier.
-Establish a Communication Pattern
When you can’t see each other every day, communication becomes 100 times more important. People communicate in different ways, and it’s essential that you and your s/o figure out how it’s all going to work. Setting basic communication expectations will save you both a lot of stress in the long run.
-Technology Has Your Back
When it comes to LDRs, your cellphone is your best friend, and we’re not just talking about texting. FaceTime and phone calls are huge helpers in staying connected. Call your s/o on your walk to class or plan a FaceTime date. Real phone conversations go a long way in making the distance less daunting.
-You Don’t Need to Talk 24/7
You’ll be so much happier the minute you realize this. As much as you want to be clued in on what’s going on in your s/o’s life, it’s not always realistic or healthy to be talking every minute of the day. Put your phone down every once and a while and don’t freak out if your s/o does the same.
-Share the Little Moments
Even though it’s okay not to talk 24/7, it’s STILL nice to have someone who actually cares what you ate for lunch. Little details can give your partner a better idea of your world and help you stay connected. Bring them into your daily life as much as possible with your stories and descriptions, and share the little moments as much as the big ones!
-Trust is Key
Trust is the glue of all LDRs. Without it, you and your s/o will both be miserable. You should both be able to enjoy your lives while you’re apart without it threatening your overall relationship. You both chose to do long distance for a reason, and the right person will be loyal to you through all of it.
-Get Over Your Insecurities
That anxious voice in your head that pops up at the most inconvenient times? Get rid of it. Distance magnifies insecurities and doubt which can lead to some pretty nasty arguments. Use your time together to work through any issues you have so they don’t drive you crazy when you’re apart.
-Make the Other Person Feel Special
You don’t have to be in the same place to do something nice for your s/o. If they’re having a tough day, have food delivered to them or write them a good old fashioned love letter. Distance doesn’t have to kill romance. There’s a lot you can do to brighten the other person’s day and remind them how much you care, no matter how far away they may be.
-Make the Most of your Time Together
Distance really does make the heart grow fonder, and it’s amazing when you and your s/o actually get to spend time together. Take advantage of that feeling and plan a fun date night or night in. Make sure to put your phone down and really focus on your boo.
-Be Present
Our last piece of advice is to be PRESENT in your life when you and your s/o aren’t together. Yes, long distance sucks, but it has its perks. You’re lucky enough to have someone who cares enough about you to make the distance work, and you’re lucky enough to have your own amazing life filled with other amazing people. Don’t let the emotions of missing your person diminish your relationships with others. Live in the moment, whether you’re together or apart, and it’ll make you stronger in the long run.