Someone needs to say it. A long distance friendship is harder than a long distance relationship. Imagine wanting to tell your best friend exactly how your Tinder date was, but they’re busy snoozing because you two live in different time zones.
Regrettably, many of us are unable to maintain a healthy long distance friendship. The experience can be overwhelming, and we eventually drift away. It doesn’t have to be like this, though. Whether you or your friend moved away, or you found your partner-in-crime online, our 10 tips will keep that ‘magic’ alive. Stuck at the hip, always and forever, bestie.
Accept The Situation
This goes without saying, but if you live in denial about your friend moving away, your friendship will get sour. To avoid this, accept the situation. The acceptance will help you understand that things are about to change, and it need not be for the worse. Cherish what you have today and look forward to what you will have tomorrow.
Weekly Friend Dates
Even though nothing can beat being with your other half in person, weekly virtual dates are almost as good. Set a time every week when you both are free for half an hour to upto an hour, and mark your calendars. If you have some bucks to spare, send your friend some food and talk over a meal. Video chatting will allow both of you to catch up while watching each other and, believe us, it will go a long way.
Make sure you say No to distractions when you are on a friend date. Give your buddy your undivided attention and you will strengthen your bond even more!
Celebrate Every Little Achievement
When your friend achieves something, no matter how little, celebrate it with all your heart. They finished making a painting they had been wanting to do for a long time? Cheer for them. They have a presentation the next day? Offer to help, and don’t forget to wish them luck.
We can’t stress this enough. Be your friend’s biggest supporter and celebrate them every day.
Try Not To Trip
It happens with the best of us. Sometimes, our friends are just busy. Or they need some space to figure things out. Respect the fact that your friend is an individual, and they will have to do certain things on their own. Leave a few hearty messages when you don’t hear from them, and don’t trip. An understanding friend goes a long way.
Plan Activities You Can Do Together
Sometimes, talking isn’t enough. Other times, we run out of things to say. That is why it is important to do things with your friends that don’t involve talking, but just being there.
Plan a yoga session together as frequently as you’d like, or stream a Netflix movie and watch it together.
Be Open
It’s not always easy to be honest about how we feel. But when we are vulnerable, we allow ourselves to be loved. If you are not doing okay, let them know. If you need space, let them know.
And if you’re very, very happy, definitely let them know. Let your friendship rest on truth and compassion.
Work On Yourselves, Together
Growth and change are the only constants. Allow your friend the space to blossom, and do it yourself. When they change in a good way, acknowledge it.
Do not try to hold them back from blooming. Instead, grow together, even if you are growing differently.
Have Other Friends, Too
Having one friend can work when they are physically present, but responsibilities do not allow this to be an ideal situation when they are long-distance. Understand that your friend will be busy at times, and that they won’t always be able to be there for you.
Have other friends as well. This will help you in understanding and analysing your own expectations, and will lead to healthy friendships.
Send Them Things
Nothing says ‘I love you’ like a thoughtful ditty. It doesn’t have to be an expensive gift. You could send your friend some nice food, little trinkets or even cards and letters to show them you love and miss them. Tell them how much you appreciate them and watch them get teary.
Try To See Each Other Sometimes
There is absolutely nothing better than seeing your friend in person. Even if it is once or twice a year, try to meet them. This could be a planned meet or a surprise. Spending some time together with your bestie IRL is refreshing and therapeutic.
Which of these tips are you going to try out? Tell us!
If you liked reading this article about long distance friendship, you’d also love: A Never-ending Cake To Honour Evergreen Friendships
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