Whether it be parents, siblings, friends, or significant others, travel can sometimes pull loved ones apart. If you’re looking to feel close no matter the distance, here are some tips to make home feel a little less far away.
Prioritize It
It might sound silly, but setting time aside for faraway loved ones is the best way to make sure that you stay connected. This is especially true when you’re stuck in different time zones. Maybe you decide to call every Sunday at noon, or you Marco Polo each other while you get ready for work. Once you find ways to incorporate them into your day, you may find that they don’t feel so distant after all.
Add Variety
One of the great blessings of the internet is the myriad ways to keep in contact. If you’re going to be doing long distance for an extended period, explore different apps. Consider recording voice messages, sending each other memes on Instagram, texting throughout the day, writing emails, or even sending physical letters. This can help break up the monotony and make the process a little more fun.
Find Activities
If you miss doing things in person together, try doing something virtually. Play an online game. (Dominion is a personal favorite.) Call while you cook dinner and try making the same recipe. Start a Spotify Jam so you can share music in real time. Watch a movie at the same time and text each other throughout it. Whatever you do, make it something fun you can both enjoy.
Long distance is never easy. Sometimes it can be a real grind. But if you use a little creativity, you might find that absence truly does make the heart grow fonder.