When most people think of maintaining a long-distance relationship, they often think about romantic relationships. Although they are one of the relationships that people maintain long distances, you can’t forget about your friends and family too!
If you’re out of town, halfway across the country, or you are living halfway around the world, it’s a good idea to pay attention to all your relationships. Here are some tips that will ensure all your relationships flourish, no matter where you live.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Support
Living in a new place can be a challenge in many ways. It can be emotionally draining, and it can be financially draining. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help.
Ask your best friend if they have time for a video call to get a little emotional support, or ask a family member if they can send you money to help pay for the bills. It may make you feel a little uncomfortable to reach out at first, but chances are, your friends, family, and significant other will be more than happy to help.
Communicate, but Not Too Much
If you are maintaining a long-distance romantic relationship, communication is key. Knowing how to communicate is important when maintaining relationships with family and friends too!
The most important tip to follow is to reach out and communicate, but don’t go overboard. Call them on the phone, schedule video chats, and send text messages, but it’s important to give each other a little space too. Otherwise, significant others can come across as needy, and parents can seem like they’re smothering.
Do Things Together
The hardest part about being away from the ones you love is not getting to do things with each other. Although it isn’t absolutely necessary, shared interests and experiences can make maintaining any relationship easier. That’s why it’s important to continue doing things together, even if you can’t see each other in person.
A few ideas include:
- Watching the same television shows together
- Reading the same book and talking about it
- Playing games together on an app
- Go for a walk together while on a video call
The more creative, the better! Go online shopping together, play your new favorite songs for each other, or read stories to each other. What counts is that you’re spending virtual time together.
Send Something in the Mail
With the internet, you can send messages in an instant. Although it’s nice to be in quick and easy contact with the people you care about, there’s still something special about a handwritten letter.
To make your letter even more special, send it with a care package. Include the recipient’s favorite candy, a small toy that reminds you of them, and other items they’ll appreciate. They’ll love coming home to discover you’ve been thinking about them!
Your relationships don’t have to suffer just because you live far away from the ones you love. With these tips, you’ll be able to maintain happy relationships with your friends, family, and significant other.