Are you in a long distance relationship? Or do you find yourself having trouble when your loved one is away? Some studies have been done on long distance relationships that show they still have:
- Satisfaction
- Intimacy
- Commitment
- Durability
There are multiple reasons that people are in long distance relationships. Today the economy can be a common factor, but time apart can be a great way to stay independent and deal with the tension that can come from having such a close connection. With today’s social medias of Facebook, face-time, Skype, cell-phones, and email it is easier to stay connected if a relationship has to be long distance. If you feel like your distance is devastating, remember that you are not alone and that nearly 7 million couples consider themselves to be in long distance relationships. (Devito, The Interpersonal Communication Book, p.262).
So what do you do to keep your spirits up and your relationship strong?
Make Dates. Try to plan certain days and times throughout the week that you will dedicate to talking to each other on face-to-face communication so you can see one another.
Text Often. Texts are nice subtle reminders that you are thinking about your partner or a quick “I love you” on the days that are very busy.
- Say Good-Morning and Good-Night. Make sure you ease the jealousy that can come into long distance relationships by making that person the last one you come in contact with at night and the first in the morning.
- Love Letter. Snail mail is a nice, old-school way to take some time and hand write a letter that they can read over and over again. And it wouldn’t hurt to send a photo of yourself they can hang somewhere to see you each day.