Long-distance relationships are a unique challenge, but they can also be incredibly rewarding. I’ve spent years loving someone over a thousand miles away, and while it hasn’t always been easy, it’s taught me valuable lessons about love, patience, and communication.
My partner and I met in college, living just five minutes apart. As athletes, our schedules were packed, but we made time for each other. When COVID hit in 2020, we suddenly had more time together—except he was in California, and I was in Arizona. After transferring to a college in the Midwest, the distance grew. Then, he was drafted for professional baseball, and we found ourselves 1,300 miles apart with a three-hour time difference. His demanding schedule keeps him at the field for 10+ hours a day, but we’ve made it work.
Here are some tips that have helped us navigate the distance:
- Maintain Your Independence: Your partner is an important part of your life, but they shouldn’t define it. Pursue your own goals and interests while supporting your partner in theirs.
- Use the Agapé App: This app offers daily relationship questions that foster deeper connections. It’s a great way to stay emotionally close, even when you’re physically apart.
- Avoid Over-Communication: Constant texting or calling can be overwhelming. Instead, focus on quality over quantity with brief check-ins and meaningful conversations.
- Communicate Clearly: Long distance requires extra effort in communication. Be honest about your feelings and needs, and encourage your partner to do the same.
- Create Virtual Dates: Distance doesn’t have to stop you from having date nights. Watch movies together online, have dinner over FaceTime, or send surprise gifts to each other.
- Value Your Time Together: Make the most of your visits by planning ahead and staying present in the moment. Always have your next trip planned to keep the excitement alive.
- Be Thoughtful: Show love through intentional words and actions. Learn each other’s love languages and find creative ways to express them from afar.
- Focus on Self-Growth: Use this time to grow as an individual. The more you love and understand yourself, the more love you can share with your partner.
Long-distance relationships are hard, but with effort and communication, they can thrive. While it’s tough being apart, the right person makes it all worth it.
