Long-distance relationships are always being talked about, as people are continuously searching for advice on how they can make it work with their partner/friends. My colleagues, co-workers, and surprisingly even my yoga teachers have asked me many questions on what it takes to maintain healthy yet distant relationships. You’ll be excited to hear that I have 4 simple tips + 1 overachiever tip that you can apply in your romantic and friend based relationships.
BELIEF IN ONE ANOTHER:
First and foremost, you both have to be in agreement that you will each be able to have a distant relationship. If one person in the relationship doesn’t believe they can do it, then they won’t. Belief is everything when it comes to manifesting a successful outcome. There will be days when you question whether it’s worth it, but that’s when the other friend/partner comes in and makes you remember why you are doing it.
MAKING TIME VS. NOT HAVING TIME:
Majority of people believe they don’t have the time to make a distant relationship work. My partner and I are very busy entrepreneurs, and on top that we both dedicate time to our health and wellness. When it comes to making time around the gym, work, coaching, blogging, and me-time…it can sometimes feel like we both don’t have the time to communicate. But your relationship isn’t something to balance with other areas of you life.If you value your relationship I believe you will always make time. I make it a priority to set aside 30 minutes each day to talk to my partner via Facetime. If I don’t get that much time, I make sure I’m sending him funny videos I come across, flirty texts reminding him I’m his, and commenting on his dedication to making his dreams a reality. Being there doesn’t always mean being a hug away. You can show gestures of trust, kindness, and appreciation from wherever you are if you’re willing to make time for what you value.
CARE PACKAGES:
One of my favorite ways to show appreciation is through the US post office. When I first moved away from home, My mom would send me small packages filled to the rim with personalized items she knew I’d love. (hence the term “Care Package”) It wasn’t the heartfelt items that made me happy, but the intention behind those items that brought me joy. Knowing she took the time to put a care package together made me feel so appreciated and respected. Sense then I have loved sending packages to my partner and best friend in hope to show them how much they are appreciated. If I don’t send a whole package ,I still send letters that usually include a picture we both find memorable. Personalizing gifts shows that you remember the unique things about them and that you value and notice the wonderful memories you created together.
GIVING WITHOUT GETTING:
Let go of thinking this way: “He didn’t compliment me today, so I won’t compliment him.” “She didn’t send me a good morning text, so I won’t send her one.” and start thinking “I can’t wait to send a good morning text to my best friend.” “He looks so good in that picture, I’m going to comment on it right now.” Give without getting. Expect nothing in return, and you’ll be surprised what actually comes back to you. You may be thinking, what about the ones who will just take advantage of my good nature? Well, let them. Wouldn’t you rather find out they behave this way now rather than later? When you notice this tendency in another, be strong enough to leave that relationship.. However, if the relationship is healthy you will be amazed what manifests when you give full heartedly without the need of something in return.
TV SERIES/ BOOK CLUB ( FOR THE OVERACHIEVERS) :
There is nothing stronger than the bond between two people who watch the same Netflix series. (yes i said it) Trust me, I’ve been at tables with friends who are watching the same series, and if you aren’t watching it too, you sit there alone and in silence. My partner and I agree that having a TV series/book you can go through together can be game-changing! Game of Thrones has allowed my partner and I to create inside jokes, send funny memes back and forth, and even have conversations about our favorite characters. Books have allowed us to have in depth conversations about what we’ve learned and what we perceived. Having your own mini book/movie club can strengthen your communication. I know that without a good series, some of the funniest conversations I’ve had with my friends and partner would not exist.
At the end of the day, I always desire to be closer to my best friend and boyfriend. On the hard days I’ve learned to be grateful. I’m always grateful for technology that allows me to FaceTime. I’m grateful for my boyfriend because he is my rock. I’m grateful for my best friend because she always has my back. When the feeling of “lack” creeps up I suggest turning to gratitude. Write down why you are grateful for them, and then tell them a few things on that list. They will feel appreciated, and you will feel confident in the everlasting bond you’ve created.
Wishing you the best in all your relationships. May your friendships be filled with laughter, smiles, and good times. May your romantic relationship be filled with support, trust, honesty, and warmth.
XOXO – Allison Grippe
Allison Grippe
Allison is one of the youngest members here at BestLife Coaching Society. At 22, she is an amazing and driven entrepreneur that has used BestLife to build her business. She was able to approach Apple and Android to create a “What did you forget” app due to her amazing creativity and professional ability. Allison is young, energetic and such an incredible contribution to BestLifeife coaching to promote overall wellness. Check out her blog Weekly Tip with Allison Grippe for some more great articles from her!