Let’s talk about it — long distance relationships

To be blunt, long-distance relationships have a bad reputation. Usually, everyone’s first response is that it won’t work out, it’ll be short-lived, and, overall, it’s just a waste of time. 

There are various reasons why people look down on long-distance relationships but don’t fret. Their opinions are merely projections of their own insecurities. After all, distance makes the heart grow fonder. 

Tinder, Bumble, Grindr, and even non-dating social media apps have closed the gap between differences in geographical location. The person of your dreams might be 500 miles away, but thanks to the internet, connecting with others is a lot easier. 

Long-distance relationships and Gen Z go hand and hand. Don’t throw in the towel and quit the race before it even begins; understand that it’s not mission impossible. 

So, before you spazz about how difficult it’ll be and worry about how a long-distance relationship can work, let’s start by validating a few emotions, shall we? 

Straight-up, long-distance relationships can be scary, especially if your love language is either physical touch or quality time. Craving intimacy is a natural desire in relationships and phases of feeling lonely, bored, and even insecure are inevitable. 

But don’t underestimate the power of your heart. Believe it or not, it’s definitely capable of being stronger than your mind. 

Long-distance relationships require work, trust, and patience but when you really think about it, what relationship doesn’t? So, if you really like this person, love even, and you want to make your relationship work, here are a few ways you can ensure your long-distance relationship has a fighting chance of survival despite the distance. 

First, talk with your partner. 

As we all know, communication is key and it is a fundamental piece to any healthy relationship. FaceTime and phone calls are already imperative, but even more so when it is your only form of communication. Discuss what your preferences are and when the best time to reach out is. 

Some relationships require consistent communication while others honor a stronger sense of autonomy and need limited conversation. If you bond over music, share songs with one another. 

Also, sending funny tweets and Instagram posts is a fun way to stay in contact throughout the day. It even gives you more topics to talk about which sounds like a win-win. 

Another way to have a successful long-distance relationship is by doing activities together. 

Watch a movie with one another, cook dinner, or do something as simple as running errands. Video calling with a planned agenda is a great way to keep calls productive. This way you aren’t just staring at the “paused” screen, which isn’t fun for anyone. Well, unless that’s what you are into. 

Next, plan a visit to see each other. 

Unless your money grows on trees and even if it did, you don’t have to visit all the time; however, having a trip planned relieves a lot of stress on the relationship. After all, you both deserve a reward after equally putting in the effort to keep your connection afloat. 

Still, it’s important to stray away from treating your visit like a vacation. Yes, you can have a few dates planned, which is extremely healthy for any relationship, but keep in mind that just being in each other’s presence is enough. 

Stay in for a few nights and enjoy one another’s company. Also, don’t forget the little things. Popping out is fun, especially for capturing fire Instagram posts and sappy date night TikToks, but remember you can still find moments of intimacy when cooking breakfast together, working out at the gym, or having a game night. 

This next step might be the most important aspect in all relationships — maintain your independence. Although, being without your partner may feel like a part of you is missing, at the end of the day you were your own person before you started your relationship. 

Continue to live your own life. If anything, use the time apart to become a better person, and in return, you will show up even better in your relationship. 

With effort, trust, and effective communication, you might surprise yourself with how well everything goes. Long-distance does not have to signal the end of your relationship and it shouldn’t discourage you from starting one either.