Never to fear, your long-distance relationship guru is here. I have come to you with a second installment of do’s and don’ts for a long distance relationship. Loving long distance can be hard or it can be easy, but what it will never be is impossible. All it takes is a little effort and a lot of love.
“Love is like the wind, you can’t see it but you can feel it.” — Nicholas Sparks
Do’s
1. Support your significant other’s interests.
In a relationship, interests matter so much. Even if you don’t share the same interests as your significant other, you should invest some time and focus into listening and learning about them. You can never go wrong with making an effort, and your partner will love that you care about what matters to them. The look on my boyfriend’s face when I listen to him talk about his favorite game (that I don’t particularly like) is the best, and he always tells me afterwards how much he appreciates me just listening.
2. Plan digital date-nights.
Since COVID-19, digital date-nights have never been better. Thanks to FaceTime and other video-chatting programs, being able to have a movie night or game night from afar has never been easier. Having these digital date-nights makes long-distance relationships easier because you are still actively invested in making plans and spending time together. It shows both parties that the effort and desire are there, which helps make a relationship fuller.
“All that you are is all that I’ll ever need.” — Ed Sheeran
Don’ts
1. Don’t overspend on unnecessary things.
Part of being in a long-distance relationship is learning to cut back on frivolous spending. This is so you can put your money toward things like plane tickets to see your significant other. That could mean limiting the games you buy, the coffees from Starbucks or going to the movies every week. It’s a sacrifice, but one that will be worth it in the end if you truly love them.
2. Don’t be super clingy.
This is something that I personally struggle with a lot. When you are in a long-distance relationship, it’s implied that you won’t get to be physically affectionate with your significant other. You also will not get to see them face-to-face—unless it’s through a screen. Because of this, you may find yourself having unfulfilled needs. The only way to get past them is to communicate those needs with your significant other. Once they know what’s bothering you, they can help in whatever way possible.