Here are 10 tips for
long-distance couples to maintain closeness, despite the distance:
Seeing each other is key, so
regular visits are a necessity. But, be sure to stay at each other's homes
instead of just taking vacation weekends together. Vacations are great, but
they don't give us any insight into our partner's daily life. As I previously
mentioned, intimacy develops from a deep sense of familiarity with your
partner — this familiarity starts at home.
2. Become
an oversharer.
The most important thing you can
do to build intimacy while you're apart is talk. Talk about your day, and ask
about your partner's. Talk about the details, however unimportant you think
they seem.
3. Video chat ... daily.
Even those with the busiest of
schedules can make time for a quick video chat each day. Being able to see one
another daily, even for five minutes, goes a long way toward developing
intimacy. The consistent visual connections build familiarity and confidence in
knowing one another.
Taking photos throughout your
day, and sending them instantly is a quick and easy way to share your daily
experiences. It also adds to the transparency of your daily life, which is a
key factor in keeping trust alive.
5. Always be willing to learn.
No matter how much you try to
build intimacy, living apart means there will likely be things about your partner
that you don't know. Whether it's his new favorite beer or her latest work
drama, there's often something you yet to hear about. Recognize this, and
try not to let it overpower how much you do know. Try your best not to get jealous of the people who are in your
partner's daily life — people who may know more of the details.
6. Respect the importance of making an effort.
Long-distance relationships often
require more effort from each partner to keep the relationship healthy. You'll
have to make time for each other when you're busy, talk when you don't feel
like talking, and spend time and money on travel. Recognizing this and
respecting its importance will make for a healthier, more intimate relationship.
7. Set an intimacy goal for each visit.
To make the best of the time you do spend together, take time to plan an
"intimacy goal" for each visit. One weekend might be all about
staying in bed to develop physical intimacy.
Another might be about showing your partner the details of your everyday
routine. The next visit might be about meeting local friends. When you design
your visits with an intent to increase intimacy, the visits will likely feel
much more fulfilling, and bring you much closer than they would otherwise.
8. Fantasize.
Instead of trying to forget about
the physical intimacy you can't have while you're apart, fantasize about it.
Let your mind create stories that you can share with your partner, and consider
acting them out next time you meet.
9. Start the countdown
When you make the choice to
pursue the relationship long-distance, decide how long you'd be able to live
apart. Envision your future living together, and create a plan to get
there. Take measurable steps along the way and stick to the plan.
10. Enjoy your personal time.
Instead of focusing on how much
you want to share every moment with your partner, appreciate the personal time
you have while the two of you are apart. Do the things that make you
happy, and tell your partner about them. The happier and more comfortable you
are as a person, the better you'll be able to communicate with your
partner, and the more intimate your relationship will be.
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