COVID-19 pandemic has affected many things, especially relationships. As you know, the moment COVID-19 was declared to be a pandemic by the WHO (World Health Organization), a majority of the Governments in the world were forced to close their borders. The worldwide border closure has kept many people separated from partners, family, and friends. Many students had to leave loved ones behind or those they were dating to go home due to the imposed closure, curfews, and other guidelines. For this reason, many people were forced to practice long-distance relationships.
However, the million-dollar question is; can a long-distance relationship work?
There is a lot of debate regarding this topic online. However, those in a long-distance relationship are not entirely at a disadvantage. That is because sometimes absence is all that is needed to make the heart grow.
This is why in this short document, we are going to offer some long-distance relationship advice that will hopefully help you overcome the current physical distance and make it easy to grow your relationship even further.
NOTE: Just like many things, for a long-distance relationship to work, both parties have to put more effort, conscious effort.
1. Respect Each Other’s Schedules
Times zones are different. This is why it is important to learn to respect each other’s schedules. Try to inform yourself more about the schedules and routines of your partner and take the time to accommodate them. It will be easier to set up certain times to catch up. Do not forget to try to be flexible and understand when a certain event comes up and prevents your communication plans. When this happens, you must communicate the change.
In all this, it is wise to practice balance and moderation. Always strive to focus on quality conversations rather than frequency.
2. Avoid Expectations And Prejudice
If there is something in your mind, it is wise to have a conversation about it rather than form assumptions. Also, do not begin to set expectations. Disappointments can be prevented if you choose to uphold honesty and frankness from the beginning. Never impose all responsibilities on the other person. The relationship belongs to both of you; as such, the input has to be equal for it to work.
3. Find Creative Ways To Stay In Touch
According to communication experts from Telco Works, communication (both fugitively and literal) is paramount in a relationship. For this reason, it is important to maintain contact with your loved one. Let it go beyond the traditional calls and texts. Try to find creative ways to stay in contact that can spark the relationship.
For example, you can have a dinner date over any video calling platform. You can stream TV shows and movies to watch together. You may also play online games, sing karaoke, or even set up exercise routines. The ideas and activities you can do together are endless.
4. Buy Gifts To Remind Them You Still Love Them
Never underestimate the power of a gift. There are many forms of gifts to consider. A few examples include jewellery, mugs, and jumpers/hoodies. Remember, a gift does not need to be big or expensive, what matters is the intention behind that gift. In other words, it should be something mindful, and they will appreciate it.
A gift care package is our favourite and has proven to be highly effective. This includes a collection of some of your partner’s favourite goodies like bath products, snacks, games, or candles. Check our guide if you are not sure how much you should spend on gifts.
5. Think Out Of The Box
Do not rely solely on technology to communicate, no matter how this looks impractical. It may sound silly, but writing a heartfelt letter or greeting card can be the swiftest thing that can bring a smile to your partner. Try to think out of the box and try new things.
6. Be There For Them
Even though you are a long way or apart from your loved one, it does not mean that you should not be there for them. Their work, sturdy, or the general stresses of the day can affect them some days than others. For this reason, always be ready to lend an ear anytime they are willing to share and support them where possible.
Life coach expert Jeanine Sciacca says “If they prefer time and space, give them generously and let them know that you are there when they are feeling ready to share”.
7. Celebrate Each Other
No matter the distance, there are many things to celebrate about each other. This may be a birthday, anniversary, or professional and personal achievement.
As Sydney celebrant Johan Khoury “always focus on the good things that happen while you are apart. Let the good out way the challenges”.
Next, you communicate with your long-distance partner, celebrate them for being part of your life and appreciate them for all they do.
8. Align Your Goals
Maintaining a long-distance relationship is difficult, but can be rewarding. One way to guarantee success in a long-distance relationship is; having shared goals no matter how big or small the current situation may seem. Always try to create and align long term goals with your partners.