No, I am not an expert, nor is this a preferred relationship status, but sometimes, life gets in the way. After a decade of on and off long distance from opposite sides of the world to 8hrs by bus to east coast west coast, with the same one person, my soon-to-be husband, I wanted to write down some of my own advice. Staying optimistic and sane, or a disillusioned believer in true love… either way, these have helped me.
1. Communicate every day. Whether by text, call, video, or even letter. You have to interact on a daily basis just like any other couple who gets to see each other at the end of the day. It is extremely important to maintain the frequent contact and updates of all the mundane things you encounter on a daily basis in order to stay intricately connected to each other’s experiences.
2. Plan and book plans to see each other. Even if it is months away, having the next reunion scheduled makes a huge mental difference. It also demonstrates commitment and intention.
3. Remember the affection. It’s not the same as a warm hug or kiss, but words of affection might be the only love language available that spans physical distance.
4. Spend virtual time together. Thank goodness for technology advancements because that means you can at least stare at each other over video for hours… or just video call while you each do your own tasks. Just being in the same room together, even if virtually, is almost just like any other couple who might sit on the couch together, but on their phones.
5. Watch movies together at the same time. Put your bae on one device and use another to click play simultaneously.
