Many college students have found themselves in a long distance relationship at some point in their lives and have wondered how they are going to make it work. There are a number of reasons why you may be far away from your significant other, and the trials and tests that are paired with that distance are never an easy thing to deal with.
I have found myself in a long distance situation once before and it was tougher than I anticipated. There are a couple keys to keep in mind while dating someone long distance, and if you want it to last you’re going to have to put in a lot of work.
Communication
Communication is probably the most important aspect to keeping your relationship going when you’re facing long distance. Not being near your boyfriend or girlfriend means that they have no clue what you are doing, thinking or feeling unless they communicate it to them.
There is nothing wrong with establishing some kind of schedule or asking your partner to keep you up to date on a regular basis. Texts and phone calls should be regular. You should do almost as much or as much communicating with one another as you would if you both were living in the same area code.
Send Mail or Give Gifts
In our society today, writing letters or sending packages through the mail is not as popular as it once was, but there is something very romantic about the anticipation of waiting for a surprise in the mailbox. Seeing their handwriting and holding the same things they held can create a soothing connection.
Giving each other pieces of clothing, pictures or other intimate items can be a good way to remind each other of your love and can make it feel like they’re there with you.
FaceTime or Skyping
Finding time to video chat via Facetime or Skype will do wonders for your long-distance relationship. It is easy to forget what your boyfriend or girlfriend’s face looks like when you haven’t seen it in front of you for weeks at a time. Never underestimate what a smile from your “baby” can do. Schedule a time and day to do it. Chat every morning, every night, every other day, or once a week; whatever satisfies your needs.
Sexting
Sex and passion are vital parts to all healthy relationships. Having an orgasm with the person you care about is not only a big stress reliever, it also just feels really good. Don’t be afraid to push the limits and go outside your comfort zone.
Helping your man or lady get off with pictures, videos, phone calls or even over Facetime is nothing to be ashamed of. If you feel nervous, start slow and work your way up to bigger, freakier things. Opening yourself up to these vulnerable situations can also help with your comfort level with one another.
Visiting
Even when the distance seems daunting it is important to make the effort to travel and visit one another. No matter how much you talk or how well you’re handling your long distance, there is nothing quite like holding and touching that special person. Taking the time to spend the weekend or few days with your significant other will recharge and give new life to your relationship.
Don’t be afraid to ask to take turns driving to each other and feel free to schedule your visits ahead of time. Writing a cute little note on your calendar and counting down the days makes it something to look forward to. If you’re willing to go the distance for each other, you will make it through the many miles.
Haley Dake is a senior studying journalism at Ohio University. What other signs of affection help keep a relationship alive? Let Haley know by emailing her at @hd883312@ohio.edu
