Difficulties with communication are common in relationships in general and in long distance relationships these difficulties are only exacerbated. When you can’t see your partner’s expression or physically touch them as a method of reassurance or affection, it can be difficult to get the message across. Communication becomes stressful. For example:
Is it ok if you don’t talk for a few days?
How many times can you say I miss you before it becomes pointless and annoying?
What’s the virtual equivalent of a warm hug or kiss?
Finding the right balance is key to resolving the issues of communication. However, it’s important to remember that a relationship will always be evolving and changing. Being open to these changes is just as important as discussing them.
Meet More Than Their Screens
As you know, texting is a really simple way to instantly communicate with your partner, and when it comes to long distance relationships this immediate connection is important. However, texting should never be your primary method of communication. As beneficial as it can be, don’t let your relationship become a “textationship”.
Keep The Connection Strong
Connection is a key ingredient in relationships. How many times have you heard people say:
“We just connected, straight away.”
Or:
I just didn’t feel the connection anymore…
In long-term relationships it can be difficult to retain this connection when the daily grind of life takes over, and in long distance relationships it’s even harder.
So, how can you hold on to the connection:
– When there’s no more long nights of staying up wayyyyyy too late binge watching TV shows or re-watching your favorite movies?
– When lazy Sunday breakfasts and the wild Saturday nights are distant memories?
– When suddenly you have separate lives, with separate friends and separate needs?
Two words: text date.
Curl up on your respective couches and watch a movie or a TV show that you both enjoy and text each other little comments. Once again, it doesn’t replace a real date. But, it’s kind of a cute, fun addition to your dating arsenal.
Missing Their Touch?
The lack of physical interaction and connection is often the last straw for many long distance couples. Many would argue that without this physicality a romantic relationship is nothing more than a friendship. However, true intimacy is far more than just physically being able to touch each other.
So, here comes the fun bit 🙂
Use text messages as a method to keep that fire burning between you. There are two key things you need to consider when sending flirty text messages; timing and content.
Don’t send your love a flirty text at a time when you know they will be fighting through the throngs of commuters on their way home from work. Instead, wait until they’re all cozy at home, settling in for another boring night. You message will provide a much needed energy and passion boost at this moment. In terms of content keep it light, funny, and full of sexual innuendos.
Jealousy And Paranoia
Texting is also your knight in shining armor to help you combat jealously. Suddenly your partner is out living a life that you are not involved in. They probably have new friends, new interests and maybe picked up new hobbies. All of these things increase feelings of jealousy and paranoia.
Feeling jealous when your partner is out and about having fun without you is a natural emotion. And guess what? If you feel jealous, they probably feel jealous too!
While the emotion you feel is uncontrollable, your interpretation of this emotion and how you choose to act is under your control. So, before you lash out via text…Stop.
All serious issues should always be addressed face-to-face. Never via text.
Pop Some Confidence In Your Relationship
Instead of fighting by text, use texting to add a little dose of confidence and positive vibes to your relationship.
For example, if you’re going on a big night out with your friends and are spending time posting photos on Instagram and Twitter, then you have time to send a little message to your partner. It doesn’t have to be anything long or special. You don’t even need to do the sappy “I miss you so much, wish you were here.”
Give them a causal update about where you are and what you doing. Make some effort to include them in the occasion, e.g.
“Out with the girls tonight. Found a bar that serves the best cocktails ever. I’ll take you next time you visit.”
Reducing the feelings of jealousy and the repercussions that come with it is all about making your partner feel like they are included even when they’re far way. Make your partner feel confident that they are still number one.
Long distance relationships don’t have to be a noose around your neck. We’re lucky enough to live in a society where instant communication is possible. Take full advantage of this and keep in mind the reasons you are together in the first place.
