Long distance relationships can be hard to navigate, but a little TLC can go a long way with friends and family that are far away. Like any relationship, near or far, long distance relationships require intention and care to stay intact and to continue to thrive. Here’s how to intentionally connect with your long distance loved ones.
Send a ‘Hello’ Text
As simple as it sounds, check in on your people with regular texts. Life moves quickly, and sending a quick “How are you?” text or a “Thinking of you” text can go a long way. It also does not have to be that complicated. You can also reach out to text about a new movie, the latest TikTok dance or a new artist you like.
Set Up Regular Calls
We all get busy, and it can be easy to get wrapped up in life’s hecticness. To stay connected to your long-distance friends and family, it’s important to set up regular phone calls or video calls. While a text is nice to see, there’s nothing like hearing your loved one’s voice. Calls might not be as frequent as you like, but it’s about the quality of conversation.
Send Small Gifts of Appreciation
If a holiday, birthday or celebration is coming up, take advantage of the day to celebrate your people. Send them flowers, chocolates or other small tokens of appreciation to show that you are thinking of them. Bonus points if you write a handwritten card or note to tell your people how much you appreciate and value them.
Don’t Wait for Special Occasions to Reach Out
Although it’s great to send gifts and tokens of appreciation for holidays and in times of celebration, special moments should not be the only reason you reach out. Be sure to reach in the mundane moments of life and in the everyday hustle and bustle.
Plan a Trip Together
Finally, one great way to strengthen your long distance relationships with family and friends is to plan trips together. Travel is an opportunity to bond and spend quality, intentional time together. It’s also a lot of fun to travel to new places and make new memories with the people you love.