The Distance Dose

Let’s be honest, when most people hear the words long-distance relationship, their first reaction is probably an eyebrow raise or a “good luck” and truthfully, it is hard. FaceTiming instead of being face to face, missing out on birthdays, different time zones, etc. There are plenty of reasons why long distance sucks but sometimes, just sometimes, long distance isn’t always a dealbreaker we make it out to be. In fact, it can kind of be okay. 

Independence

Being long distance means learning how to be independent during your time apart. You strengthen your ability to live life on your own so that when you’re together in the future you aren’t just co-dependent. You still go out with friends, thrive in your career or academics, and make decisions for yourself. A healthy long-distance relationship allows both people to grow as individuals while still being with each other.

Strengthens communication

Long distance forces you and your partner to communicate effectively. You can’t always rely on tone over text, facial expressions, or other non-verbals. You can’t hide your feelings and expect them to always realize something’s wrong and read your mind. You can’t fully connect with your significant other without speaking to them with purpose. Empty words divide people but long distance will teach you to speak with meaning to make sure you’re both on the same page. 

You learn priorities

In long-distance relationships, everything requires a little more effort than usual. You learn how to prioritize your time, making room for what truly matters to you, and teaches you to be patient with yourself and your partner. You appreciate the small things more, like a text in the middle of a busy day or a surprise FaceTime call just to say hi.

Tests your connection

Long distance tests the loyalty, commitment, and values of each person. It can show you how compatible you both are through it all by showing how each person handles themself and the relationship through their lives. Making it through long distance is worth it and creates such a strong foundation for the future of your relationship.

You can’t take them or your time together for granted

When you finally get to see each other, every second counts. You savor every moment possible. Whether it’s airport hugs, weekend trips, or even just sitting on the couch doing nothing when you’re back together during holiday breaks, everything feels a little more special because you waited for it.

At the end of the day, long distance can be difficult but if the person is the one then it’s worth it. It’ll make your relationship stronger at the end of it.